Plan your Adventure: The Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Ultima actualización en 6 November, 2024 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 6 November, 2024 by Waman Adventures

Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience and discover the best time to visit Machu Picchu with Waman Adventures! You can explore this complex during the dry season to the maximum, taking advantage of clear and sunny days to take the best photographs of this beautiful Inca citadel. However, don’t overlook the adventure offered by the rainy season, when the weather becomes cooler and more pleasant during your journey or hikes, and likewise, you’ll enjoy less crowded tourist places and witness the flora blooming.

WHAT IS MACHU PICCHU?

Machu Picchu is the most important Inca citadel currently, featuring impressive architecture where its walls made of gigantic stones are still an enigma for scientists and visitors alike. Machu Picchu has been fascinating thousands of visitors when exploring every corner of this sacred Inca place. What better way to explore and learn than by traveling when days are clear and neat and be amazed by its beauty without complications and according to your needs?

The most important Inca citadel in the world.

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL IMPORTANCE OF MACHU PICCHU

This citadel was built in the 15th century by order of the Inca Pachacuti and, according to some research and chronicles, was a sacred place where many worships took place for the Inca’s gods. It also has cultivation areas, utilized due to its location and climate; thus, it also served to observe astronomical events.

DOES IT RAIN IN MACHU PICCHU?

Because it stands about 2,430 m.a.s.l in the middle of the cloud forest of the Cusco, rainfalls, and storms in Machu Picchu can occur suddenly; however, they are very common during the rainy season. However, these rains are usually brief in the dry season and more prolonged in the wet season. Due to the location of this archaeological complex, you should always expect rain and sunlight. If you are looking for the best time to visit Machu Picchu and avoid rain, cloudy, or “bad weather,” choose the months from April to October.

Machu Picchu is foggy.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER THINKING ABOUT THE BEST TIME TO EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU

To ensure the most spectacular and exciting experience during your magnificent trip to Machu Picchu, we must consider several factors, such as the travel season, the appropriate itinerary, and the type of transportation that will take you through beautiful landscapes. Also, it’s important to avoid some restrictions that could bring us unpleasant moments during the tour.

WHEN IS MACHU PICCHU OPEN?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is on the day you choose since it is available all year round, meaning that no matter your vacation period, you can explore this magnificent citadel whenever you want. However, it is important to note that due to external factors such as strikes, the authorities may be obliged to close Machu Picchu, as the safety of our visitors and this archaeological site are a priority.

WHICH MONTH DOES MACHU PICCHU CLOSE?

This is one of the great doubts for many travelers, as they often confuse the availability of the Inca Trail with that of Machu Picchu. While it is true that the Inca Trail undergoes maintenance throughout all February, Machu Picchu remains open every day year around.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU IS BY HIKING THE INCA TRAIL

This is the favorite option for travelers seeking adventures and challenges amidst natural trails full of history or hikers, with different versions available to suit your physical condition, time, and budget. The best time to visit Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail is during the dry season, as you will find a better and sunny trail, which is very important to consider when facing this hike.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days (Short Inca Trail).
• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days (Classic Inca Trail).
• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days (Extended Inca Trail).

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN

The best time to visit Machu Picchu by train is practically all year round. Also, visiting Machu Picchu by train is ideal for travelers with less time or tight schedules, so train service provides a comfortable experience during the transfer from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

Check out some of the options we have for you including train services.

• Train Tour to Machu Picchu Full-day.
• Train Tour to Machu Picchu 2 Days 1 Night.

HOW MANY HOURS COULD A PERSON SPEND IN MACHU PICCHU?

Regarding the time you can spend exploring this Wonder World, it ranges from 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on your physical condition and the Machu Picchu entry tickets you have purchased. There are 5 Machu Picchu entry tickets and options to explore exclusive areas such as Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and Huchuy Picchu.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND RAINFALL IN MACHU PICCHU

The climate in Machu Picchu is cool, hot, and humid throughout the year, ranging from 15°C to 22°C on average per year. There are also two marked seasons, the dry and rainy seasons. The fact is that during the days, you will feel warmth, and if you are in the shade, you will be cool.

If your ideal option for the best time to visit Machu Picchu is a mild day with little sun or cloudy sky, the ideal time would be during the rainy season. But if you prefer radiant sunshine and warm temperatures while walking and exploring Machu Picchu, the dry season is for you.

TEMPERATURE IN MACHU PICCHU

Since the archaeological site of Machu Picchu lies within the Cusco jungle, the average annual temperatures are usually very pleasant, ranging from 10°C on cold nights to 26°C. For many travelers, sunny days are the best time to visit Machu Picchu, as warm moments start early hours.

CLIMATE AND SEASONS IN MACHU PICCHU

Visiting Machu Picchu and exploring all its areas is a unique and unparalleled experience, especially knowing that each season (dry or wet) or travel date will offer you a unique and exclusive experience, depending on the temperature, climate, and your objectives. And to live it in the best way, you need to consider details that will help you get ready for any sporadic rain or a completely radiant sun.

WET SEASON AND DRY SEASON IN MACHU PICCHU

In Peru, we only have two well-marked seasons, “the dry season,” known as the high season, and “the rainy season” or low season. Each season has different climatic factors that directly influence the flux of visitors and the tour experience of Machu Picchu or everywhere. That’s because knowing the main differences monthly will help you be prepared to face all the weather conditions. The best time to visit Machu Picchu is if you are a rain lover and have warm climates away from the heat, this is your favorite choice.

DRY SEASON (APRIL TO OCTOBER)/WEATHER IN MACHU PICCHU MONTHLY

MACHU PICCHU IN APRIL

The beginning of dry season starts in April and is the favorite of most travelers, which means that as the days go by, the rains will move away, and the influx of visitors will increase.

• Advantages: at the beginning of this month, you can enjoy the archaeological complex with warm climates ranging from 15°C to 22°C and the low influx of travelers.
• Disadvantages: you could experience rain during your visit, and likewise, have a foggy landscape.

MACHU PICCHU IN MAY

The number of visitors increases this month, and the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex offers you days of possible light rains with fully sunny days, thus providing you with a cool experience perfect for photography.

• Advantages: the weather still ranges between 16°C to 22°C, allowing you to enjoy your trip in a temperate and cool climate.
• Disadvantages: the influx of travelers is already noticeable, and rainy days may still occur.

MACHU PICCHU IN JUNE

This month is very special for Cusco, as it is known as the festive month, and high demand comes into effect, taking advantage of the hot temperatures you will enjoy once you get to the Inca citadel.

• Advantages: during this month, you can enjoy completely sunny and clear days, ideal for taking the best photos of the archaeological complex.
• Disadvantages: tourist services begin to saturate, and the influx of travelers increases.

MACHU PICCHU IN JULY

Enjoy clear skies everywhere, you will enjoy warm weather, the random presence of passing clouds, and a large influx of tourists.

• Advantages: rains are practically nonexistent, and the weather becomes hot, providing you with incredible moments to enjoy the landscape without any obstacles.
• Disadvantages: it’s the peak of visitors, and all archaeological sites like Machu Picchu are fully saturated.

MACHU PICCHU IN AUGUST

It provides you with warm tours and much more presence of winds, which will refresh you during your exploration, considering that the number of tourists remains high.

• Advantages: your sunny days will be accompanied by light winds during visits, which will provide you with a feeling of freshness during treks.
• Disadvantages: the complex still maintains a large influx of travelers.

MACHU PICCHU IN SEPTEMBER

You will have a tour with quite a presence of winds and some presence of light rains, which will provide you with a fresh experience during your adventure. The number of tourists is greater than in previous months.

• Advantages: the winds are present and become the protagonists, giving you a warm and fresh experience during your tour.
• Disadvantages: the landscape becomes somewhat yellowish due to the lack of rain in the area.

MACHU PICCHU IN OCTOBER

In the final month of the dry season, the influx of tourists decreases significantly, as the presence of rains will increase as the days go by, and the wind will provide you with a relaxing breeze during your exploration.

• Advantages: the archaeological complex begins to feel more tranquil, and the trips are calmer.
• Disadvantages: rain will start to occur suddenly.

TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT DURING THIS SEASON

1. Book in advance (3 months before): due to the high demand of this season, you should plan your entries, train tickets, and services such as hotels in advance for the best experience.
2. Bring sunscreen/insect repellent: the sun is at its peak, and mosquitoes take advantage of it too.
3. Arrive early at the train station: you should be present at your station about 30 minutes before your departure time, always with your documents and ticket.
4. Visit during the week: according to some statistics, Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually have fewer tourists.

RAINY SEASON (NOVEMBER TO MARCH)/WEATHER IN MACHU PICCHU MONTHLY

MACHU PICCHU IN NOVEMBER

This marks the beginning of the rainy season, which means that as the days progress, the presence of rain will gradually increase. The first days are ideal for visiting the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site, taking advantage of the decrease in tourists.

• Advantages: Due to the lower influx of travelers, touring the complex becomes lighter and calmer. You will also notice ideal weather between 17°C to 23°C.
• Disadvantages: The rains will take over the days, so you should be prepared for them.

MACHU PICCHU IN DECEMBER

A festive and family-oriented month for local citizens, which drastically reduces the influx at Machu Picchu, with rain becoming prominent. You’ll have temperate tours with light rains.

• Advantages: The complex feels more private and tranquil due to its lower traveler influx; the days are still calm with light rains.
• Disadvantages: Mornings with fog may occur, something many travelers prefer not to see.

MACHU PICCHU IN JANUARY

Rains dominate much of the day, accompanying you during your Machu Picchu tour, with the great advantage of not encountering many tourists during your visit.

• Advantages: You’ll practically feel like the archaeological complex is exclusive to you, as the number of travelers decreases.
• Disadvantages: Rains are already recurrent, so having appropriate clothing is essential.

MACHU PICCHU IN FEBRUARY

Known as the rainiest month, so it’s very likely that throughout your exploration of the Machu Picchu archaeological complex, you’ll be accompanied by rain, requiring suitable clothing.

• Advantages: The month with the lowest traveler flux, favored by people who don’t like crowds, enjoying a climate between 15°C and 22°C.
• Disadvantages: Rain is a daily occurrence and will accompany you during your visit.

Note: It’s important to emphasize that this is not the best time to visit Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail, as the trail is completely closed. However, visiting the archaeological complex is possible.

MACHU PICCHU IN MARCH

Marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the high season, with fewer rains as the days pass and an increase in tourist influx. Ideal for travelers who dislike rainy scenarios or crowded tourist masses.

• Advantages: The rains will feel less intense, and you may experience sunny days, enjoying the vegetation at its most iconic.
• Disadvantages: Rain will still be present for much of the month, and you’ll have to face it during treks.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PREPARING FOR RAIN AND ENJOYING THE VISIT

If you’re traveling during these months, the main recommendation is to have waterproof trekking clothing and shoes, as rain will be your main challenge during your adventure. And because of the rain, the influx won’t be an obstacle for you to enjoy the entire Machu Picchu tour.

TOURIST FLOW AND AVAILABILITY OF MACHU PICCHU

DIFFERENCES IN TOURIST FLOW ACCORDING TO THE SEASON

Depending on your choice of travel season, you may encounter different numbers of travelers eager to visit Machu Picchu, something to consider to ensure the utmost enjoyment according to your expectations.

TOURISM IN THE DRY SEASON

The influx during this season is at its peak, as many travelers consider this the ideal time to visit Machu Picchu because rains are practically non-existent, and the landscapes are completely clear, ideal for memorable photographs. Regardless of whether you choose the Trek or the Inca Trail option, you’ll notice a large influx of travelers.

Reach Machu Picchu on foot or train

TOURISM IN THE WET SEASON

During this season, the number of travelers decreases significantly, as rain is present for much of the days, and the Inca citadel is often submerged in a rainy, cool climate, and sometimes under the enigmatic blanket of fog. This is not ideal for many travelers who want to capture the best photographs of the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex.

MACHU PICCHU TICKET AVAILABILITY

To ensure that all visitors can experience the magic of touring the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex, the Peruvian government controls the capacity to visit each day, as well as schedules and routes. These controls also ensure that Machu Picchu is preserved as a World Heritage Site and that future generations can appreciate its beauty.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, prices and the number of visitors have been modified, so it’s recommended to consult the official website for the most updated information. Or if you prefer to leave the planning in the hands of local experts, you can join an all-inclusive Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tour.

WHEN IS MACHU PICCHU MOST CROWDED?

There is a higher influx of travelers during the dry season, also known as the high season in tourism. This is because, for many tourists, sunny and clear weather is ideal for trekking the Inca Trail and reaching Machu Picchu, and Americans and others have vacations these months. On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid crowds, we recommend visiting Machu Picchu during the wet or low season.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ACCORDING TO THE SEASON

IS THE DRY OR WET SEASON THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU?

THE WET SEASON

It is the best time to visit Machu Picchu for those who enjoy warm temperatures; if you love flora and nature, you will see the best during this time cause nature is blooming.

THE DRY SEASON

If you travel with family and enjoy stable weather, this is the best time to visit Machu Picchu and take advantage of sunny days, you can take the best photos, and you will also be sure that your children will enjoy the trip.

WHAT IS THE ITINERARY FOR MACHU PICCHU OFFERED BY WAMAN ADVENTURES?

The itinerary to this citadel begins when you leave your hotel in Aguas Calientes and take the bus to the entrance of the archaeological complex, where you will meet your guide to start the tour. The duration of your tour to Machu Picchu will strictly depend on the package you purchased, as there are two ways to get to this archaeological complex, the famous Inca Trail and by train service.

• Wayna Picchu or Huayna Picchu Route: if you only purchased this ticket, you will have an approximate 2 to 3-hour trek to the mountain (round trip), so the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the early hours from 7 am to 9 am.
• Machu Picchu Mountain Route: the best time to visit Machu Picchu with this ticket is between 9 am and 11 am, as you will be able to see the archaeological complex in its greatest splendor and brightness.
• Machu Picchu or Classic Route: this one is enjoyable at any time; however, the best time to visit Machu Picchu with this circuit is between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m, at the latest 9 a.m, as it is the most famous and there is a greater influx of travelers.

HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU UNDER THE RAIN

This is an adrenaline-filled and unique experience, as you can enjoy the famous Inca Trail or its alternatives (Lares Trek, Salkantay Trek, or Inca Jungle) under a refreshing breeze that will help you overcome the challenges of this trail. Its greatest relevance for travelers is that the flora begins to be the protagonist of this adventure, taking on a green color and where orchids are blooming, allowing you to appreciate firsthand the beauty and diversity of vegetation that will accompany you throughout the trail until you reach Machu Picchu.

However, for a safer experience, the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu through these trails is during the dry season.

FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITING MACHU PICCHU

TRY NOT TO GO TO MACHU PICCHU ON SUNDAY

While it is true that the complex is available to be visited 365 days a year, we recommend that the best time to visit Machu Picchu is from Monday to Saturday because Sundays are preferred by locals and national tourists, generating a greater presence of crowds on this day, something that could be bad to many travelers who do not like to be surrounded by a bunch of people or who wish to visit the complex in a quieter and more personal way. The best time to visit Machu Picchu and avoid crowds is during the wet season from January to March.

ARE THERE TOILETS AT MACHU PICCHU?

Yes, toilets are available at the entrance of Machu Picchu. We remind you to use the service obligatorily before taking the bus to your hotel or the entrance of Machu Picchu. So, in case you need to use these services, you must do it according to the following tips.

Toilets at the hotel are for free, but if get to the main entry of Machu Picchu and you want to use the toilet, the fee is about 4 soles. Why is important to use toilets before entering Machu Picchu?

• You can not re-enter to Machu Picchu if you leave for toilet services.
• There are no toilets in Machu Picchu.

DO I NEED A SPECIAL TICKET TO CLIMB HUAYNA PICCHU?

Definitely yes, since you can not climb Huayna Picchu taking the normal or traditional circuit. This special Circuit is the number 4, and they must be booked well in advance due to the high demand of tourists. By the way, you can consult with our sales agents about your reservation and ensure your ticket to this sacred mountain.

DO I NEED A GUIDE TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU?

Yes and not. According to the regulations of the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex, all visits must be under a professional guide supervision, who is responsible for leading and assisting their clients. Nevertheless, in practice, you can enter Machu Picchu without a guide.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU / THE BEST SCHEDULE TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU

The most recommended time by many travelers and professionals is between 7 am and 10 am, during this time, the sun is lightning and allows you to have an incredible view of the archaeological complex, also since the atmosphere will feel fresh and you can be one of the first travelers to tour this Inca citadel.

WHAT ARE OTHER TIPS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN VISITING MACHU PICCHU?

• Take a light and small backpack, with essential items such as water, snacks, and sunscreen.
• The weather is unpredictable, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof jacket.
• Bring your entry tickets and passport or ID, they are essential to access the complex.

SO WHEN IS THE BEST MONTH TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU?

The best answer to this great question – we must consider aspects such as weather, and also the tourist numbers who attend Machu Picchu.

The ideal months are the beginning and end of both seasons, April and October. Both months have very relevant characteristics, such as fewer travelers, sunny days, and a lower probability of light rains. Data that makes them ideal months of the year for you to be encouraged to visit Machu Picchu.

CONCLUSION ABOUT WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU

This is an easy answer to take, since as we mentioned before, you are the one who will opt for your most suitable travel season of when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Since the dry season is the best time to visit Machu Picchu; if you are a traveler who has the opportunity to have vacations during these months or if you are going to do a trek, it is undeniably ideal for you.

On the other hand, if you are a traveler who will have your vacations in the wet season and you are a nature lover, enjoying all the flora and fauna of this time, the rainy season becomes the best time to visit Machu Picchu for you. Remember that these are only advice and that climates are not safe, go with the best attitude and enjoy your trip to the mystical Inca citadel.

Now you know all the data you know about how to choose the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Then, they accord to your possibilities, remember that you will enjoy incredible experiences, whatever your choice.

We hope that all the information is helpful for you to be able to book your trip with us now, Waman Adventures assures and offers advice at any time of the year to you.