Best Time of Year To Visit Machu Picchu

Are you planning a trip to Machu Picchu? Traveling to this amazing world wonder has been one of my favorite places to visit and I would 100% recommend anyone to go see Machu Picchu. 

But something very important to keep in mind, when is the best time of year to go to Machu Picchu? Peru’s weather is a bit different than Europe or the US. Their Summer is my winter and vice versa. 

With the change in season, you want to be very careful when you are visiting. You don’t want to go when it is cold or even when it is really hot! The mountain is at a high elevation, so whatever the temperature is, it will be worse when you are at that altitude!

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

When I visited Machu Picchu it was the end of October and the beginning of November and it was PERFECT! Whether you are trekking or just going for a few hours. You will be walking a lot and you will get tired easily because of the altitude. 

During that time, it was a bit chilly! But the temperature was perfect. Since it was not that hot, it made it easier to hike through Machu Picchu and it was more enjoyable. It does get warmer during the day and a lot cooler at night.  You will just need a sweater!

The best times to go to Machu Picchu are during the following months,

Best Time / Best Months to Visit Machu Picchu in Peru

Machu Picchu in May

May is a great time to visit Machu Picchu! The rainy season has passed so the weather will be a lot nicer! It will also be a bit chilly as the cold season will be starting, but there will still be a little bit of warm weather. 

The peak season will start in June, so May will be perfect to avoid a lot of crowds and still get great weather to visit the amazing world wonder.

Machu Picchu in June

To be honest, June is not my favorite time to visit due to the crowds. I like avoiding crowds and I am big on traveling on a budget. This month will be a lot more crowded and hotel prices will spike. 

But, this is a great time to visit. There are a lot of festivals going around and the weather is starting to get a bit chilly. I like going when it is not too hot or cold. The temperature will be just right!

Machu Picchu in September

As September begins, the temperature does start to warm up. It will be a bit cold, so I recommend going towards the end of September instead. By this time, there aren’t a lot of crowds and you will see more flexibility with prices. 

Since winter is leaving. The sun will stay out for a lot longer, If you plan to visit a lot of areas, this is a huge benefit!

Machu Picchu in October

This is my favorite time and the one I recommend the most. The weather is a bit chilly still but it will be warm during the day. You will just need a sweater at night! 

There are barely any crowds, so you will be able to enjoy Machu Picchu a lot more. If you are traveling to nearby places, the weather will be perfect. October might be a bit rainy, but during the time I went it was absolutely beautiful with clear blue skies.

Machu Picchu in November

Since the peak season has been over for a few months, there will not be a lot of people. This is great if you are planning to budget as much as possible! It does rain a lot, so you will need to prepare for any rain with special rain gear. Especially if you are planning to hike the Inca trail and will be there for a few days.

Machu Picchu Weather in December

The temperatures are hot and it will be very sunny. This is ideal if you are traveling to different parts of Peru like Lima or Cusco. If you are hiking, the weather might be too hot and will make it more difficult. 

I always prefer to go during the end of winter or the beginning, it will be a bit chilly, But! You can still go during December, especially if you are not planning to do one of the hiking trails.

When is the busiest time in Machu Picchu?

June – August are usually the busiest month in Machu Picchu. If you want to avoid large crowds. This is the driest season in Peru, so many will fry during this time. But I recommend skipping this peak time and visiting during a time when the weather is chilly, with clear skies, and fewer crowds.

What is the best time of day to visit Machu Picchu?

The best time of day is before Noon! Getting to Machu Picchu is a long adventure! If you are visiting from Lima, it will take you quite a few hours to reach your destination. It is worth it! There are a few ways to get there, for more information click here. 

I recommend going to Machu Picchu in the morning. Preferably around 10 AM, you want to avoid large crowds that are usually there in the afternoon. If you are taking a train, you will most likely need to depart around 5 AM!

You will be walking around in the sun and it will get hot. Make sure you avoid the noon sun by either going in the morning or in the evening. Machu Picchu is warm so make sure you bring a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray!

Best Time of Year to Go to Machu Picchu FAQs

Machu Picchu is an incredible experience. You see so many pictures online, but being there is so different, and being able to experience that unique wonder. 

If you are planning a trip and are wondering when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu, here are a few things to keep in mind. 

How many days do you need in Machu Picchu?

If you are trekking to Machu Picchu, it will take you a few days. But if you are not planning to hike, it took me a few hours. My recommendation is to go for at least 5 days for you to stay in some of the nearby towns. 

Getting to Machu Picchu takes a few hours and you can make it within 2 days. But to make your trip less hectic and be able to enjoy more 5 days would be my recommendation. There are so many things you can visit and see while also adjusting to the altitude and avoiding altitude sickness. 

During my visit, I went to Cusco and saw so many awesome things, for a few ideas on what to do, where to stay, and what to eat. Visit my post HERE.

Can a beginner hike machu picchu?

The Inca rail is considered to be an intermediate hike. I do not recommend you do the big trail if you have never hiked before. Instead, there are different alternatives you can do. 

You have the option to do a day hike or even a few hires. It all depends on what point you begin the trail. If you are a beginner, try the day or even the hour hike. It can get very exhausting and the altitude can also have a big effect on how you feel. 

If you are doing it for the first time, I recommend using a tour.  They will be able to help and if you are having any issues, it is better to have someone that can help. 

When doing hard hikes, it is better to prepare. Whether you are a beginner or not, make sure you physically and mentally prepare before embarking on this journey. 

For more information and tips on how to prepare for a hike when trying to see when the best time to visit Machu Picchu, I recommend you read this article. 

Machu Picchu Weather?

The weather in Machu Picchu depends on the month you are in. It gets very cold or hot depending on the season. There is also a wet and dry season, so you will want to try to avoid the rain. 

Peru’s weather is different than the US’s or Europe’s. Our summer is their winter, so definitely be careful depending on when you go. 

June to September: this time is the cool season in Peru. You will need a jacket to be warm and it can be breezy too. The coldest month will be in August. The temperatures can be as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit. 

October – November: the cool weather is leaving but you will still feel a bit chilly at night. During the day it will be a lot warmer, but not very hot so you can get away with wearing shorts and T-shirts. 

December – February: these are the hottest months in Peru. When you are thinking about the best time to visit Machu Picchu, I always like going when it is a bit chillier. Machu Picchu is hiking even if you are going for just a few hours. The walk is exhausting and the altitude sickness does make it more difficult. Which is why I would recommend going during October instead. 

What is the best time to hike the Inca trail?

When you are planning to hike, make sure you are reading about the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Hiking is different than if you were just visiting the wonder for a few hours. 

Make sure you avoid the rainy seasons and extreme cold or hot weather. The best time to kike Machu Picchu’s Inca trail is during March, October, or November. 

During these months you are skipping the wet season! You will also not have a lot of heat or cold weather. Instead, it will be chilly which is perfect weather for hiking. 

During these months, the days are also longer! This will help give you more time during the day till you reach your destination. 

If you are a beginner, you might want to consider a few things and make sure you are prepared for your journey. There are a lot of tours that will take you through each trail and you might feel more comfortable having a team of professional guides. 

Macchu Picchu tours?

If you are planning to go to Machu Picchu there are a few tours you can take to ensure you have a safer and better time. During my trip to Machu Picchu, I did purchase everything through a tour company. 

Having this made my trip so much better. I did not have to worry about transportation and I had someone to take me back to my hotel after my long trip to Machu Picchu. They also made sure I had a hotel in a good location and even scheduled a few tours to see the city of Cusco. 

If you are hiking the Inca trail, a guide will also be very helpful. They will help you and even take food, snacks, and water for you. It does give you peace of mind!! I truly recommend using one if it’s a new place and you might not know the language that much. 

The tours are more expensive, especially if you are traveling on a tight budget. Different tours have a variety of prices! You can click here to see the different trekking tours or here for day tours to Machu Picchu. 

When should I go to Machu Picchu?

If you’re planning your Peru travel, you must be wondering when’s the best time to visit Machu Picchu. Luckily, this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site is open year-round, which means that it is up to personal preference when to go.

However, keep in mind that the most popular time to visit is from June to August, which is also the dry season in the region. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, consider traveling during the shoulder season months, such as April and May or September and October. 

Keep in mind that the rainy season in Machu Picchu lasts from November to March. During this period, you may encounter heavy rainfall which would make hiking on the mountains such as Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu mountain more treacherous and may limit your experience of the site.

It’s important to plan and check the latest weather and travel advisory before going to Machu Picchu to ensure you have the best and most comfortable experience possible. 

How many days do you need at Machu Picchu?

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, it is recommended to take a Machu Picchu tour and spend at least 4 hours exploring the site and 2 days in Aguas Calientes, which is the town where Machu Picchu is. This not only gives you the best chance to fully appreciate all that Machu Picchu has to offer but also allows you to adjust to the altitude, which is over 7,000 feet above sea level.

Additionally, it is important to note that the ideal time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season from May through October, when the weather is more stable and clear, allowing for a better view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

While some visitors choose to visit for just one day and return to Cusco, this does not allow enough time to properly explore and appreciate this incredible site. It is also important to note that Machu Picchu is open from 6 am – 5 pm, so visitors should plan their Machu Picchu travel accordingly.

With at least 6 hours to explore, or 2 days where visitors can take their time to wander through the ruins, hike to the Sun Gate or Huayna Picchu, and take in all of the stunning views that Machu Picchu has to offer. 

What is the cheapest month to go to Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary tourist destinations in the world. When planning your trip to visit Peru’s Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, there are several factors you must consider.

The cheapest month to go to Machu Picchu varies, but typically it is during the low season in Peru, which is from November to April – excluding the peak season from mid-December to mid-January.

Nonetheless, the best time of the year to visit is from April to October when the weather is ideal for trekking and mountain climbing. It is recommended to book your trip to Machu Picchu months in advance to secure the best deals and ensure the availability of travel and accommodation arrangements.

Ultimately, it would be best to research and consider different factors such as the weather, tourist seasons, time of year, and budget to make the most out of your visit to Machu Picchu. 

Is there a rainy season in Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is a popular tourist destination in Peru, known for its stunning views and ancient ruins. Many visitors come to Machu Picchu for its natural beauty and the chance to hike the Inca Trail to get there. One question that people often ask is whether there is a rainy season in Machu Picchu. The answer is that it does rain in Machu Picchu, although the rainy season varies depending on where you are and what time of year you visit.

The rainy season in Machu Picchu typically lasts from November to March, although rain can occur year-round. However, if you are determined to travel to Machu Picchu during the rainy season, then during that time consider going in February, as this is a time slot with light rains and fewer tourists.

July and August are generally considered the best weather months, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Nonetheless, this is also the peak tourist season, so visitors may want to consider visiting during the quieter months to avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu Pueblo.

If you are planning to hike to Machu Picchu, it is important to be prepared for rain and to pack accordingly. You will need to bring a rain jacket and waterproof shoes or boots, as well as other clothing suitable for the varying temperatures and weather conditions.

It is also important to note that the weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it is wise to be flexible with your plans and to plan your hike according to the time of day when weather conditions are likely to be more favorable.

Overall, while there is no guarantee of sunny weather year-round at Machu Picchu, visitors can still enjoy the breathtaking views and ancient ruins regardless of the weather. With a little bit of preparation and planning, a trip to Machu Picchu can be an unforgettable experience.

How many days do you need in Cusco to see Machu Picchu?

When planning a trip to Peru, visitors can expect to spend at least three to four days in Cusco and Machu Picchu. The famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a must-do hike, which takes four or five days to complete. This trail is only accessible from March to December due to weather conditions.

However, travelers can visit Machu Picchu year-round by train from Cusco. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu are the highlights of the visit, and visitors can choose between early morning or afternoon access.

It is recommended to book entrance tickets to Machu Picchu in advance and to also consider the number of visitors to Machu Picchu, as peak season (June to August) can get quite crowded. Additionally, visitors should consider acclimatizing to the altitude in Cusco before visiting Machu Picchu.

A trip to Peru during the months of April to November is ideal, as this is when the weather is dry and sunny, making it easier to explore the region.

Overall, planning to spend a minimum of three days in Cusco and Machu Picchu will ensure a more thorough and enjoyable experience of these iconic destinations. 

Popular time to visit Machu Picchu! Last tips about dry season, best weather, and popular times around Machu Picchu travel.

One of the best times to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which generally runs from May to September. This is considered the optimal time for travelers, as the weather is mild, and there is less chance of rain. The temperatures at Machu Picchu during the dry season range from 50°F to 70°F, making it a comfortable time to explore the ruins.

It is essential to keep in mind that based on the weather, even during the dry season, the mornings can be chilly, so it is recommended to bring layers. During the dry season, Machu Picchu is usually crowded, and there are peak times such as June, July, and August, where tickets to the ruins sell out quickly. Therefore, it’s advisable to book in advance to secure your spot.

On the other hand, visiting Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes during the rainy season, which can last from November to March, can be a different experience. While there may be more rain and higher humidity levels, it’s worth noting that the rains bring out the vibrant greenery of the surrounding landscape, creating a lush, tropical atmosphere. It’s also a less crowded time of year, so visitors can enjoy peace and seclusion while exploring the ruins.

However, during this time, there is a higher chance of trail closures and landslides, so it’s vital to keep an eye on weather updates. In short, depending on the time that you choose to visit Machu Picchu, you’ll experience different levels of crowds and weather conditions, but regardless of the season, it’s a spectacular place to explore. 

Table of Dry-Rain Season vs Visitors Peak Season.

The following table is a year-round calendar evaluating the “Average rainfall probability” and the “Visitor’s Peak Season”. You will also find the “Season” and Crowd Estimation” columns along all the months of the year. This will help you determine which is the best season to visit Machu Picchu. Of course, the table below is just for reference and estimation might vary from year to year. It is always recommended to check the weather before traveling and deciding to experience Machu Picchu. 

Best Time of Year to plan a trip to Peru and visit Machu Picchu

Machu Pichu is one of the world’s wonders! I recommend anyone visits this amazing place. From all the pictures I saw, nothing compares to seeing it in person. There are a lot of different things you want to take into consideration. From distance travel, weather, where to stay, etc. 

The best time to visit Machu Picchu does vary, but for me, it would be in October. During my visit, I went towards the end of October and it was amazing. The best times are always during the off-season but right when it is not that chilly. 

If you are planning to go, the best time is May or September – early November. Remember Peru’s seasons are at different times than what we are used to. Peru’s summers are our winters! If you visit during September – November, you might think it might be too cold! But the weather is starting to become warm. 

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is when it is warm during the day but chilly at night and those months mentioned make them the best time of year to visit. It is also during of season, it will be less crowded and hotels lower their prices. 

If you are planning on hiking, make sure you research the weather. You want to avoid wet seasons but also not visit during peak summer! Consider using a tour guide for your hike or even if you are visiting for a day. Using a tour company made my life so much easier. 

This post is all about finding the best time to visit Machu Picchu. I hope you have a blast! Just like I did.