Best Times to Visit Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru travel destination - best times to visit — Image: Machu Picchu, 2023 (012).jpg viaWikimedia Commons

Quick Answer:

May and June offer a captivating experience in Machu Picchu, with dry weather perfect for exploring the ancient ruins. Imagine crisp mornings unveiling the breathtaking sunrise over the cloud forest, the air alive with the songs of unseen birds. September and October bring warm, sunny days, ideal for hiking the Inca Trail, while the vibrant energy of local markets adds to the captivating atmosphere. July and August are also great, boasting clear skies and fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate connection with the captivating history of the site. However, be aware that December through March constitute the rainy season, which can make some trails impassable and limit visibility.

Best Months to Visit:

FebMarOctNovDec

Airport Code

CUZ

Coordinates

-13.16°, -72.55°

Top Things to Do

Sunrise Trek to Machu Picchu

Conquer the iconic Inca Trail before the crowds arrive, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise paint the ancient citadel in golden hues. The early start is worth it for the unparalleled solitude and stunning photo opportunities. Pack layers as temperatures fluctuate.

Hidden Gem: Explore the Inca Bridge

Venture beyond the main trail to discover the Inca Bridge, a marvel of engineering hidden in the cloud forest. This lesser-known site offers stunning views and a chance to connect with the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Hire a local guide for a richer experience.

Sacred Valley Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in Peruvian culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class in the Sacred Valley. Learn to prepare classic dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and savor the fruits of your labor with breathtaking Andean views as your backdrop.

Local Market Immersion in Pisac

Experience the vibrant Pisac market, a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and aromas. Beyond the tourist trinkets, discover unique textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and local produce. Engage with vendors, practice your bargaining skills, and soak in the authentic atmosphere.

See all 8 things to do →

Essential Travel Tips

money

Use ATMs in larger cities like Cusco to withdraw Peruvian Soles (PEN) instead of exchanging currency beforehand; you'll get a much better rate. Avoid exchanging money on the street, and always keep a small amount of soles handy for smaller purchases and tips.

transport

Book your train tickets to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) well in advance, especially during peak season. Consider the scenic route – it's worth the extra cost! Once in Aguas Calientes, the bus up to Machu Picchu is efficient but can have long queues; consider starting early.

safety

Don't flash expensive jewelry or electronics, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Register your trip with your embassy and keep copies of important documents in a separate location from the originals.

culture

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – even a simple "Buenos días" goes a long way. Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting Inca sites, and be mindful of noise levels, particularly in sacred areas.

food

Try the local cuisine! Look beyond tourist traps and explore smaller restaurants in Cusco or Aguas Calientes for authentic Peruvian dishes like cuy (guinea pig – if you're adventurous!), alpaca, and hearty stews. Many restaurants offer set menus (menú) which are great value.

packing

Pack layers! The weather in the Andes can change rapidly. Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. A reusable water bottle is essential, as staying hydrated is crucial at altitude.

Weather Details

Jan

10 days

Feb

8 days

Mar

7 days

Apr

11 days

May

14 days

Jun

16 days

Jul

18 days

Aug

15 days

Sep

12 days

Oct

9 days

Nov

7 days

Dec

9 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	21°C	8°C	70°F	46°F	100mm	10 days	12h
Feb	22°C	9°C	72°F	48°F	80mm	8 days	12.5h
Mar	24°C	11°C	75°F	52°F	70mm	7 days	13h
Apr	20°C	9°C	68°F	48°F	110mm	11 days	12h
May	18°C	7°C	64°F	45°F	150mm	14 days	11.5h
Jun	16°C	5°C	61°F	41°F	180mm	16 days	11h
Jul	15°C	4°C	59°F	39°F	200mm	18 days	10.5h
Aug	16°C	5°C	61°F	41°F	160mm	15 days	11h
Sep	18°C	7°C	64°F	45°F	120mm	12 days	11.5h
Oct	19°C	8°C	66°F	46°F	90mm	9 days	12h
Nov	20°C	9°C	68°F	48°F	70mm	7 days	12.5h
Dec	21°C	10°C	70°F	50°F	80mm	9 days	12h

All Things to Do in Machu Picchu, Peru

Sunrise Trek to Machu Picchu

nature

Best time: May-September

Hidden Gem: Explore the Inca Bridge

attraction

Best time: May-September

Sacred Valley Cooking Class

food

Best time: April-October

Local Market Immersion in Pisac

shopping

Best time: All year round

Inca Museum Exploration

cultural

Delve into the history and culture of the Inca civilization at the Museo Inka in Cusco. Discover fascinating artifacts and learn about their sophisticated society. Combine this with a visit to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) for a deeper understanding of Inca life and spirituality.

Whitewater Rafting on the Urubamba River

activity

Experience the thrill of navigating the Urubamba River's rapids, surrounded by the majestic Andes. Choose a rafting tour that suits your skill level, from gentle floats to adrenaline-pumping adventures. The stunning scenery adds to the excitement.

Best time: May-September

Spiritual Journey to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

nature

Embark on a challenging but rewarding trek to Vinicunca, a mountain famed for its otherworldly, vibrantly colored stripes. The journey is strenuous but the breathtaking views and unique geological formations make it an unforgettable experience. Hire a reputable guide and start early.

Best time: May-September

Evening in Cusco: Exploring San Blas

cultural

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of San Blas, Cusco's artisan neighborhood. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, browse the art galleries and workshops, and savor a delicious Pisco Sour at a local bar. This is a great way to experience the city's vibrant nightlife.

Best time: All year round

Getting Around Machu Picchu, Peru

Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is the most common way to reach Machu Picchu. Trains are comfortable and offer scenic views of the Urubamba River valley. Several companies operate these trains, offering varying levels of service.

Cost:Prices vary greatly depending on the train company and class, from $70 to $400+ per person one-way.

Tip:Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season. Consider the PeruRail or IncaRail websites. Avoid purchasing tickets from unofficial resellers to prevent scams. Pack snacks and water as train food is expensive.

Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Once in Aguas Calientes, you'll need to take a bus up to the Machu Picchu sanctuary. Buses depart frequently from the town's main square.

Cost:Approximately $24 round trip. Tickets are purchased at the bus station in Aguas Calientes.

Tip:Buy your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines. The buses can be crowded, so arrive early. The bus ride is about 30 minutes, and it's a steep climb.

Hiking the Inca Trail

For the adventurous, hiking the Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience. This multi-day trek leads to the Sun Gate, offering stunning views of Machu Picchu before entering the site.

Cost:Permits are required and must be booked through a tour operator well in advance. Costs vary greatly depending on the tour operator and level of service, ranging from $500 to $1500+ per person.

Tip:Book your Inca Trail permit months in advance, as they sell out quickly. Choose a reputable tour operator with experienced guides. Pack appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, layers of clothing, and rain gear. Acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.

Hiking to Machu Picchu (Alternative Trails)

Several alternative trails lead to Machu Picchu, offering a less crowded and more challenging experience. These trails are generally longer and more strenuous than the Inca Trail.

Cost:Entrance fees to Machu Picchu are still required. Some trails may require permits or guides. Costs vary greatly depending on the trail and level of support.

Tip:Research the different alternative trails thoroughly and choose one that matches your fitness level and experience. Hire a local guide for safety and to learn about the area's history and ecology. Be prepared for challenging terrain and varying weather conditions.

Taxi from Ollantaytambo

While less common, taxis can be hired from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, offering a more private but potentially more expensive option. Negotiate the fare beforehand.

Cost:Expect to pay significantly more than the train, potentially $200 or more.

Tip:Negotiate the price before getting into the taxi. Ensure the taxi is licensed and reputable. This option is not recommended for those on a tight budget or with limited time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu to avoid crowds and rain?

The shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, offer a sweet spot. You'll encounter fewer crowds than the dry season (June-August) but still have pleasant weather with less rain than the wet season (November-March). Keep in mind that even the shoulder seasons can have some rain showers, so pack layers and a rain jacket.

What's the most efficient way to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, and are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?

The most efficient way is by taking the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), then the bus up to the citadel. Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, as prices fluctuate. Factor in the cost of the bus to the citadel itself; it's not included in the train ticket.

Are there any local customs or traditions I should be mindful of while visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley?

Show respect for the Inca ruins and local culture. Dress modestly when visiting Inca sites, and refrain from loud or disruptive behavior. Learning a few basic Quechua phrases, like "hola" (hello) and "gracias" (thank you), will be appreciated by locals. Also, be aware that many indigenous communities still practice ancient traditions, so observe respectfully from a distance.

What are some lesser-known sites or activities near Machu Picchu that avoid the main tourist crush?

Consider hiking the Inca Trail (permit required well in advance!) for a multi-day trek offering stunning views and fewer crowds than the main site. Alternatively, explore the nearby town of Ollantaytambo, a charming village with Inca ruins less crowded than Machu Picchu. Also, consider visiting the less-visited but equally stunning Moray terraces.

How can I best ensure my safety and security while traveling to and exploring Machu Picchu?

Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night. Be mindful of your belongings, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Use reputable transportation services and pre-book accommodations to avoid scams. Register your trip with your embassy or consulate for added security.

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