Planning a visit to Machu Picchu can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to deciding when the best time to go is. The weather, the crowds, and even the time of day can all impact your experience. In this article, we will explore the different seasons, weather patterns, and times of day to help you plan your perfect trip to Machu Picchu.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is when the weather is generally sunny and dry, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so the site may be more crowded and tickets may be harder to come by. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season months of April and November, or the rainy season from December to March, when there are fewer tourists and lower prices.
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Machu Picchu during the rainy season
The rainy season in Machu Picchu runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect daily rain showers and even the occasional thunderstorm. While the rain can make the landscape lush and green, it can also make the trails slippery and muddy. Additionally, heavy rain can lead to landslides and trail closures, which can impact your ability to visit certain parts of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu during the shoulder season
The shoulder season, which runs from May to June and from September to October, is a great time to visit Machu Picchu. The crowds are smaller than during the peak season, and the weather is generally good. While you may experience some rain showers, they are typically shorter and less intense than during the rainy season.
Machu Picchu during the dry season
The dry season, which runs from July to August, is the peak season for visiting Machu Picchu. During this time, you can expect clear blue skies and warm temperatures. However, you will also encounter large crowds of tourists, which can make it difficult to fully appreciate the beauty of Machu Picchu.
Why the location of Machu Picchu affects the weather?
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, South America. It is situated on a high ridge, overlooking the Urubamba River valley, and is surrounded by lush green mountains. The location of Machu Picchu is one of the reasons why it experiences different seasons of weather throughout the year.
The city is located at a high altitude of 7,970 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level, which means that the weather can be quite unpredictable and can change quickly. The Andes Mountains also create a range of microclimates, which means that different areas of the region can experience different weather patterns.
Is Machu Picchu Open?
Machu Picchu is currently open to visitors, but there are some restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors are required to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines while on the site. Additionally, the number of visitors allowed each day is limited, so it is important to book your tickets in advance.
What is the best time of the day to visit Machu Picchu?
The best time of day to visit Machu Picchu really depends on your personal preferences. Here are some things to consider:
Machu Picchu early in the morning
If you want to beat the crowds and experience Machu Picchu in a quieter setting, consider visiting early in the morning. The site opens at 6:00 am, and the first buses from Aguas Calientes start arriving around 5:30 am. If you can make it to the site for sunrise, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
Machu Picchu during the day
Visiting Machu Picchu during the day is a great option if you want to take your time and fully explore the site. The sun is at its highest point between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, which can make for some beautiful photos. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of day, so be prepared for crowds.
Machu Picchu late in the afternoon
Visiting Machu Picchu late in the afternoon can be a great way to avoid the crowds and experience the site in a different light. The last entry to the site is at 2:00 pm, but you can stay until closing time at 5:00 pm. If you time it right, you can watch the sunset over the mountains and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Machu Picchu on Sundays
On Sundays, the locals have free entrance, this means that you will see more people in the citadel on this day. This does not mean that there is no limit to the number of tickets, they also have the same as everyone else. It is for this reason that on Sundays you can see more crowded.
Machu Picchu weather
The weather in Machu Picchu can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all conditions. In general, the temperature during the day ranges from 18 to 23°C (64 to 73°F), while the temperature at night drops to around 8 to 10°C (46 to 50°F). It is always a good idea to bring layers and rain gear, regardless of the time of year.
Machu Picchu Weather Month by Month
To help you plan your trip to Machu Picchu, here is a breakdown of the weather patterns by month:
| Month | Temperature | Temperature | Rainfall | Sun Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 72°F | High | Moderate |
| Feb | 13°C / 55°F | 23°C / 73°F | High | Moderate |
| Mar | 13°C / 56°F | 23°C / 74°F | High | Moderate |
| Apr | 13°C / 56°F | 23°C / 73°F | Moderate | Moderate |
| May | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 71°F | Low | Moderate |
| Jun | 11°C / 52°F | 21°C / 70°F | Very Low | High |
| Jul | 11°C / 52°F | 21°C / 70°F | Very Low | High |
| Aug | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 71°F | Very Low | High |
| Sep | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 71°F | Low | High |
| Oct | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 71°F | Moderate | High |
| Nov | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 72°F | High | Moderate |
| Dec | 12°C / 54°F | 22°C / 72°F | High | Moderate |
Note: The temperature range provided is based on averages and can vary depending on the time of day, altitude, and weather conditions. The rainfall column indicates the level of rainfall for each month, with “High” indicating the rainiest months and “Very Low” indicating the driest months. The sun index column indicates the strength of the sun’s rays, with “High” indicating the strongest sun exposure and “Moderate” indicating a more moderate level of sun exposure.
Visiting Machu Picchu month by month
Visiting Machu Picchu month by month can help you decide the best time to plan your trip based on the weather and other factors. Here’s what you can expect in each month:
| Month | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Machu Picchu in January | Less crowded | Rainy season, heavy rain |
| Machu Picchu in February | Less crowded | Rainy season, heavy rain |
| Machu Picchu in March | Shoulder season, fewer crowds | Rainy season, occasional heavy rain |
| Machu Picchu in April | Shoulder season, fewer crowds | Rainy season, occasional heavy rain |
| Machu Picchu in May | Shoulder season, good weather | Crowds starting to pick up |
| Machu Picchu in June | Shoulder season, good weather | Crowds starting to pick up |
| Machu Picchu in July | Dry season, clear skies | Peak season, large crowds |
| Machu Picchu in August | Dry season, clear skies | Peak season, large crowds |
| Machu Picchu in September | Shoulder season, good weather | Crowds starting to thin out |
| Machu Picchu in October | Shoulder season, good weather | Crowds starting to thin out |
| Machu Picchu in November | Rainy season, fewer crowds | Heavy rain and potential trail closures |
| Machu Picchu in December | Rainy season, fewer crowds | Heavy rain and potential trail closures |
Best time to Hike Inca Trail
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, before embarking on this journey, it’s crucial to consider the timing. As you may already know, the trail undergoes maintenance every year during February. Moreover, safety concerns during the rainy season render the trail closed. Therefore, it’s imperative to choose the right time to embark on this hike.
Inca Trail Weather
The weather on the Inca Trail can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. During the day, temperatures can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and at night, temperatures can drop to freezing. It’s important to bring warm clothing and a good sleeping bag to keep you warm at night. It’s also important to be prepared for rain, even during the dry season, as the weather can change quickly.
When is the Inca Trail Closed?
The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance. During this time, no permits are issued, and the trail is completely closed to tourists. The trail is also closed during the rainy season, which runs from November to March. This is due to safety concerns, as the trail can become slippery and dangerous during heavy rain.
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the world. It is a must-visit for any traveler, but planning a trip to Machu Picchu can be a little overwhelming. Here are some things to consider before booking your trip:
When is Machu Picchu the most crowded?
Machu Picchu is a popular destination year-round, but there are some periods that are more crowded than others. The high season is from June to August, which coincides with the school holidays in North America and Europe. During this time, you can expect large crowds and long lines at the entrance to Machu Picchu. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, it’s best to plan your visit for the shoulder season or offseason.
Availability of Machu Picchu Tickets
Machu Picchu is limited to 2,500 visitors per day. This means that tickets can sell out quickly, especially during the high season. It’s important to book your tickets in advance, preferably several months before your trip. There are two types of tickets: Machu Picchu only and Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu. The latter includes access to the Huayna Picchu mountain, which offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu.
Popular Machu Picchu Tours
There are many tours available to Machu Picchu, ranging from day trips to multi-day excursions. If you’re short on time, a day trip from Cusco is a popular option. These tours typically include transportation to and from Machu Picchu, entrance tickets, and a guided tour of the site. For a more immersive experience, consider a multi-day trek like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek. These treks take you through stunning landscapes and offer a unique perspective on Machu Picchu.
- Classic Machu Picchu Tour: This is a popular tour that includes visits to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
- Inca Trail Trek: This is a 4-day trek that takes you through the Andes and ends at Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour: This tour combines visits to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, a stunning mountain with colorful stripes.
- Amazon Jungle and Machu Picchu Tour: This tour combines a visit to Machu Picchu with a trip to the Amazon Jungle to see wildlife and explore the rainforest.
- Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Hike: This tour includes a visit to Machu Picchu as well as a hike up Huayna Picchu, the mountain that overlooks the ruins.
- Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca Tour: This tour combines visits to Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
- Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour: This tour includes a visit to the Sacred Valley, which is filled with Incan ruins and traditional Andean villages, as well as a visit to Machu Picchu.
There are many other tours available, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best suits your interests and schedule.
Read our blog: How to get to Machu Picchu.
Recommendations for best time to visit Machu Picchu
- Visit during the dry season (May to October) for good weather and clear skies.
- If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the shoulder season months of April and November.
- Consider visiting during the rainy season (December to March) for lower prices and fewer tourists, but be prepared for wet weather.
- To get the most out of your visit, plan to spend a full day at Machu Picchu and arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
- If you plan to hike the Inca Trail, the best time to do so is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is more favorable.
- Keep in mind that tickets for Machu Picchu can sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season, so book in advance to ensure availability.
- Consult with a reputable local travel agency, like Xplore Cusco, for personalized recommendations and assistance in planning your visit to Machu Picchu.
FAQs
Machu Picchu can still be enjoyed during the rainy season, but be prepared for wet conditions and limited visibility.
The early morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit Machu Picchu, as the crowds are smaller and the lighting is better for photography.
Conclusion
In summary, the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your priorities and preferences. Consider the weather, crowds, and availability of tickets and tours when planning your trip. With careful planning, you can have an unforgettable experience at this incredible ancient wonder.
