The majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, located high in the Peruvian Andes, is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the world. However, before embarking on this adventure, it is highly recommended to know what the weather is like in Machu Picchu throughout the year before planning your trip. The weather conditions of Machu Picchu vary from month to month, influenced by its altitude and geographical location. Below, we offer you a complete guide about the weather in Machu Picchu month by month, so you can plan your trip with total certainty.
Weather in Machu Picchu: What to Expect at Each Time of the Year?
Weather in Machu Picchu is mostly influenced by its location in the Andean region, located at more than 2,400 meters above sea level. Despite its proximity to the Amazon, the altitude plays a fundamental role in temperatures and rainfall. Here we tell you what the weather is like month by month so you can plan your visit in the best way.
Weather in Machu Picchu
The weather in Machu Picchu is distinguished by its mild temperatures, thanks to its high altitude and location in a tropical zone in Peru. During the day, temperatures vary between 20°C and 25°C, while at night they can drop to between 10°C and 15°C. The region has two main seasons: the dry season, from April to October, with clear skies and little rain, and the rainy season, from November to March, which is characterized by frequent showers, especially in the afternoons. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm. Therefore, visitors are recommended to dress in layers and wear waterproof clothing, especially during the rainy months.
Machu Picchu Peru Weather by Month
Machu Picchu Weather in January:
In January, the weather in Machu Picchu is warm and rainy, as it is in the middle of the rainy season, which runs from November to March. During the day, temperatures vary between 17°C (63°F) and 24°C (75°F), making the conditions pleasant, although humid. Showers are common, especially in the afternoon, so it is important to be prepared for heavy rain. Mornings are usually clearer, providing an opportunity to explore the ruins before the rains begin. The best time to visit Machu Picchu during the day is from 9:00AM to 12:00PM It is advisable to wear light, comfortable clothing and a plastic poncho or waterproof jacket, as well as waterproof boots for the slippery trails. Despite the rains, one of the advantages of visiting Machu Picchu in January is that there are fewer tourists, which allows you to enjoy a quieter experience at the site.
Machu Picchu Weather in February:
Visiting Machu Picchu in February is also a good time, although it is rainy season in the Cusco region. The weather is humid, with frequent rains, but mornings are usually clearer. During the day it is recommended to visit Machu Picchu from 9:00 AM to 12:00PM. The average temperature varies between 12°C and 19°C (54°F – 66°F). It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing, light layers and appropriate shoes to avoid slipping. Although the classic Inca Trail is closed for maintenance, Machu Picchu remains open, with fewer visitors, providing a more intimate experience. If you are prepared for rain, February can also be an excellent opportunity to explore this iconic destination with fewer crowds. If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu in February as it is low tourist season, you will find lower numbers of visitors and special promotions on tours, accommodations and transportation.
Machu Picchu Weather in March:
Visiting Machu Picchu in March is an excellent option, as this is the end of the rainy season. Although occasional rains may still occur during the day, they are less intense and frequent. Temperatures range between 12°C and 20°C (54°F – 68°F), with cool mornings. March offers stunning scenery, the vegetation is lush and green, creating a beautiful contrast with the ruins. Also, since it is not high tourist season, there is still a lower number of tourists visitng Machu Picchu, allowing for a quieter and more authentic experience. Bring light, waterproof clothing and appropriate hiking shoes. Take advantage of this month to explore Machu Picchu in its maximum splendor, and magical landscapes.
Machu Picchu Weather in April:
Visiting Machu Picchu in April is really recommended. April is the beginning of the dry season, which means that the rains practically disappear and the days are sunny and beautiful. Temperatures average between 10°C and 22°C (50°F – 72°F) with cool mornings, perfect for walking and exploring the ruins in comfort. The vegetation is still green and alive thanks to the rains of the previous months, and is a stunning contrast to the surrounding ruins and mountains.
April is also a month of tourist transition, with fewer visitors than in June and July. It will allow you to enjoy a quieter experience, with fewer people and more time to enjoy every corner of this magical site. It is an ideal time for photography lovers, as the skies are usually clear and the panoramic views are breathtaking.
Machu Picchu Weather in May:
Traveling to Machu Picchu in May is ideal for visiting, as it is the beginning of the dry season, offering clear skies and minimal rainfall. Temperatures typically range between 50°F and 72°F (10°C – 22°C) perfect for walking and exploring the ruins. The weather is stable and the views are breathtaking with blue skies contrasting perfectly with the lush green landscapes left behind by the rainy season. May is considered one of the best months to visit Machu Picchu, as the weather is pleasant and visibility is excellent, making it perfect for photography and outdoor activities. It is also the beginning of the high tourist season, so although there may be more visitors compared to previous months, it is still less crowded than in June or July. Make sure to bring light clothing for your exploration during the day, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun. Machu Picchu in May offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.
Machu Picchu Weather in June:
The weather in Machu Picchu in June is one of the best of the year, as it is in the dry season. Days are mostly sunny, with clear skies and no rain. Temperatures range between 8°C and 21°C (46°F – 70°F), with cool mornings and evenings, while daytime is usually warm and pleasant. June is one of the most popular months to visit Machu Picchu due to the excellent weather conditions and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. However, it also coincides with the high tourist season, it is important to book in advance to secure tickets and accomodations. We recommend bringing light clothing for the day, but don’t forget a jacket for cold evenings and comfortable walking shoes. Dry weather and clear skies make June a perfect time to enjoy Machu Picchu and take unforgettable photographs of this iconic site.
Machu Picchu Weather in July:
July is similar to June in Machu Picchu as it’s still dry season. It’s one of the most popular months to visit as it’s sunny and clear skies. Temperatures range from 8°C to 21°C (46°F – 70°F) with cool mornings and nights and warm and pleasant afternoons. High season brings many tourists so it’s best to book in advance to secure access to the ruins and transportation. July is perfect to visit Machu Picchu as the chance of rain is low and the views are stunning. The vegetation is still vibrant but the dry weather makes it more comfortable to enjoy the experience. Bring light and comfortable clothes for the day but also a jacket for the cool mornings and good walking shoes.
Despite the many tourists July is still a great month to enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu especially with the good weather for outdoor activities.
Machu Picchu Weather in August:
The weather in Machu Picchu in August is similar to the previous months of the dry season, such as June and July. This month is known for its sunny days and pleasant temperatures, making it one of the best times to visit the iconic site of Machu Picchu. Temperatures vary between 8°C and 21°C (46°F – 70°F). During the day it offers still blue skies and nice views allowing you to explore the ruins and surrounding area without worrying about the weather.
August is part of the high tourist season in Machu Picchu, so it is important to make reservations of Machu Picchu tickets in advance, as the number of visitors still increases considerably. However, the weather conditions are still excellent, which ensures an unforgettable experience. It is recommended to wear light clothing for the day and a jacket if you visit Machu Picchu early in the morning to see the sunrise. Enjoy the blue skies and vibrant vegetation to enjoy the spectacular views of Machu Picchu and capture unique moments.
Machu Picchu Weather in September:
The month of September in Machu Picchu can be considered the transition between the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. During this month, days remain mostly sunny, the weather between the beginning and the middle of the month is characterized by heat and abundant sunlight although light rains may appear towards the end of the month. Average temperatures during the month of September remain between Temperatures vary between 9°C and 22°C (48°F – 72°F).
September is also an excellent time to visit Machu Picchu, as there are fewer tourists compared to June, July and August.
It is highly recommended to pack light and comfortable clothing as well as raincoats and a jacket for the morning chill, the expected temperatures are convenient for a tour of the tourist area. The opportunities to explore the spectacular sights of the site are entirely unique without the need to endure many crowds.
Machu Picchu Weather in October:
The weather in Machu Picchu in October is a mix between the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. During this month, days are usually sunny in the mornings, but afternoons can have light showers and cloudy skies. Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C (50°F – 72°F).
October is an excellent option to visit Machu Picchu, since the number of tourists decreases a little compared to the months of June to September, allowing you to enjoy the site with more intimacy. The vegetation begins to look more green and vibrant, which creates a beautiful contrast for photographs. It is advisable to bring layered clothing, a light raincoat for occasional showers, and appropriate footwear for walking on wet trails. The weather in October offers a good combination of sunny days and coolness, which makes the experience of exploring Machu Picchu enjoyable and even more authentic.
Machu Picchu Weather in November:
November is an excellent time to visit Machu Picchu, as it marks the beginning of the rainy season in Cusco, but rainfall is usually light and sporadic. November is also the beginning of the low tourist season, this means that you can enjoy Machu Picchu with fewer tourists compared to the high demand months.
In the month of November, the weather in Machu Picchu has minimum temperatures of approximately 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit) at night and in the morning, while its maximum is above 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes the area classified as temperate and humid, and this is why it is suggested to wear light clothing but also waterproof jackets, as even the days are sporadically rainy. The vegetation is exuberant and the mountains surrounding Machu Picchu are resplendent due to the change of season, this greenness is revealed when the rains begin to fall. Other benefits are the advantage of having smaller crowds and the cost of both accommodations and tours are more affordable. Finally, remember that the appropriate clothing for the occasion is comfortable footwear, also carrying your camera to immortalize the archaeological site.
Machu Picchu Weather in December:
December is a particular month to visit Machu Picchu because it is the rainy season and, therefore, the landscape is green and lus. Although the rains may be more frequent, they do not usually last all day, allowing you to enjoy the visit with still good views.
December temperatures in Machu Picchu range from 13°C (55°F) minimum and maximum during the day/night time and between 21°C (70°F) maximum during daytime. The weather is very humid and you should wear light, waterproof and water-repellent clothing and non-skid footwear for walking on the stone surfaces. Despite the rains, December is one of the most popular times of the year for the end of the year celebrations, so it is advisable to book tours and train tickets well in advance. The presence of the clouds over the mountains lends to Machu Picchu a special mystique, perfect for those who do not wish a hot experience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on the traveler’s preference:
May to September (dry season)
The best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu is without a doubt the dry season, from May to September, during these months of the year is the best time to visit Machu Picchu if you prefer sunny days and no rain. During the dry season, the weather is more stable, allowing you to enjoy beautiful views. It is also the ideal time for photography lovers, as the skies are usually clear and the scenery looks spectacular. However, as it is the most popular season, you will find more tourists and the prices of tours and accommodations tend to be higher since it is also high tourist season, so it is advisable to book in advance.
October to April (Rainy Season)
The rainy season, which lasts from October to April, offers a different experience. The landscape becomes more verdant and lush, creating a unique natural environment. There are also fewer tourists visiting Machu Picchu and prices for tours and accommodations are lower. Although rainfall is heaviest in December and January, it tends to be intermittent, so visits can be enjoyed at more pleasant times. The mist and clouds surrounding the mountains give Machu Picchu a magical and mystical atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a more special experience.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Time for Your Machu Picchu Adventure
The weather in Machu Picchu offers different experiences throughout the year for all type of travlers. If you prefer visitng Machu Picchu with clear skies and less chance of rain, go between May and September. On the other hand, if you are looking for greener landscapes, fewer tourists and lower prices, the wet season is ideal. Whatever you choose, Machu Picchu will always amaze you with its natural beauty and impressive history.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful places in the world!
