The weather in Cusco in July is one of the best times to visit the city of Cusco and its surroundings, as it marks the beginning of the dry season in the region, but it also coincides with the high season. During this month, Cusco becomes an ideal tourist destination for those looking to enjoy the history, culture and natural beauty of this region. However, like any trip, it is important to be prepared for the weather conditions and know what to expect. In this article, we tell you all about the weather in Cusco in July, what to do and how to enjoy your visit to the fullest.
Is July the Best Time to Visit Cusco?
One of the most frequently asked questions from our travelers is, “Is July the best time to visit Cusco?” The answer is yes, visiting Cusco in July is the ideal time however, you should know that it is also the high tourist season which means that during this time you might find a higher flow of travelers visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu as well as higher rates in hotels and restaurants.
The weather in July in Cusco is perfect especially if you are looking for a dry and cool weather to explore the archaeological sites, such as Machu Picchu, or to hike Rainbow Mountain or the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, as rainfall is minimal and temperatures, although cool, are pleasant for outdoor activities.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds of travelers, you may want to consider other times of the year, visiting Cusco in November or December is not a bad idea. However, if your goal is to enjoy the festivities and dry weather, July is ideal.
Temperatures and Weather Conditions in Cusco
The weather in Cusco in July is typically cool and dry, as it is in the middle of the dry season. Temperatures are usually quite cool, especially in the morning and in the evening, when they can drop considerably. Here is an overview of the temperatures in july in Cusco:
Daytime temperature: Between 18°C and 22°C (64°F and 72°F)
Nighttime temperature: Can drop to 0°C or 3°C (32°F to 37°F)
Chance of rain: Low. Rainfall in July is infrequent, which favors tourism and outdoor activities.
Pros and Cons of the weather in Cusco in July
Pros:
- Dry weather: During this time of the year is deal for touring the city and surrounding areas without having to worry about rain.
- Pleasant daytime temperatures: Although it might be cold at night, daytime temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities.
- Ideal for hiking: This is the best time for hikes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Trail, or Salkantay trek are more accessible due to the lack of rain.
- Festivities: July is a month full of celebrations, such as the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen (Paucartambo), which is one of the most important festivities in the region. Peru’s independence day is also celebrated.
Cons:
- Cold at night: Nights can be very cold, especially in the higher areas of the region such as Rainbow Mountain area.
- More tourists: Being high season, Cusco receives a large number of visitors every day, which can make some tourist sites more crowded.
- Higher prices: Due to the high demand of tourists in July, prices for lodging, transportation and other services may be higher.
What to Bring to Enjoy Cusco in July?
Since temperatures in Cusco in July can vary considerably we recommend to bring appropriate clothing. Here are some recommendations to consider:
Clothing for the day:
- Light clothing: Although daytime temperatures are cool, light layers (such as long-sleeved shirts) are recommended.
- Hat or cap: Sun radiation can be intense in July, even if the weather is cool, su hat ans sun glasses are a good idea.
- Comfortable shoes: If you plan to hike or walk around town, be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the terrain.
Clothing for the evening:
Warm coat or jacket: Evenings in Cusco can be cold, so it is highly recommended to bring a warm jacket or coat.
Gloves and scarf: If you are sensitive to the cold, consider bringing gloves and a scarf, specially if you are planning to visit Rainbow Mountain.
Other useful items:
Sunscreen: Although the weather is dry, the sun’s radiation can be strong, so don’t forget your sunscreen.
Water bottle: It is important to stay hydrated, when doing physical activities at altitude.
What to Do in Cusco in July
1)Visit Machu Picchu
July is one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu, as the dry weather will allow you to enjoy this world wonder without the rains. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as demand is high during the peak tourist season.
2)Hike to Rainbow Mountain
Vinicunca is another must-see destination to visit in July in Cusco. The dry weather conditions make this trekking much more accessible and safe. Visiting the Rainbow Mountain during July offers the best scenery without the risk that the mountain could be covered with snow as in the rainy season. The trek is challenging, but the views are worth every step.
3)Do the Inca Trail
If you love hiking, doing the Inca Trail in July will be an unforgettable experience. With the dry weather, the trail is much more passable, and the pleasant temperatures during the day will allow you to enjoy the trail and the landscapes. And the best thing is that you will be able to see Machu Picchu from the sun gate with a high probability of seeing Machu Picchu without clouds.
4)Enjoy the Local Festivities
July is a month full of festivities in Cusco, such as the Feast of the Virgen del Carmen in Paucartambo, one of the most important celebrations in the region. If you are in the city of Cusco in July, you will have the opportunity to witness traditional dances and a unique festive atmosphere that will allow you to learn more about the local culture.
5)Outdoor Activities
If you like outdoor adventures, July is the perfect time for outdoor activities. You can enjoy ATVing, horseback riding, paraglading or even mountain biking. The weather conditions and lack of rain make July the ideal month for these exciting experiences around Cusco.
Conclusions:
In terms of weather in Cusco in July, this month is one of the best to enjoy the the region of Cusco. If you are looking for dry weather, outdoor activities and a wide range of festivities, July is definitely a good time to visit.
However, you should be prepared for cold nights and crowds during this time, so if you prefer fewer people, other months, such as April or May, may be more suitable.
In short, July in Cusco offers ideal climate for exploring the city and its surroundings, with the added bonus of being a season full of activities and celebrations.
