When to Travel to Machu Picchu: The Best Time to Visit

AvatarByDale Richard Traveling Information

Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. This ancient city, perched high in the Andes Mountains, is a stunning example of Inca architecture and engineering. But when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including your budget, the weather, and what you want to see and do. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these factors and help you decide when the best time to visit Machu Picchu is for you.

Month Average Temperature (C) Rainfall (mm)
January 13-17 10-30
February 14-18 10-30
March 15-19 10-30
April 16-20 10-30
May 17-21 10-30
June 18-22 10-30
July 19-23 10-30
August 19-24 10-30
September 18-23 10-30
October 17-22 10-30
November 16-21 10-30
December 15-19 10-30

The Best Time of Year to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. The ancient Inca city is located in a stunning setting high in the Andes Mountains, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. However, the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your personal preferences and budget.

Peak Season (June-August)

June through August is the peak season for tourism in Machu Picchu. This is when the weather is at its driest and most comfortable, and the days are long. However, it is also the most crowded time to visit, and prices for hotels, tours, and transportation are higher.

If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu during the peak season, it’s important to book your trip well in advance. You should also be prepared for crowds, especially at the popular tourist attractions.

Shoulder Season (May, September, and October)

May, September, and October are the shoulder seasons for tourism in Machu Picchu. This is when the weather is still relatively dry and comfortable, but the crowds are smaller and prices are lower.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed and less crowded experience, the shoulder season is a great option. However, keep in mind that the weather can be more unpredictable during this time, and there is a higher chance of rain.

Low Season (November-April)

November through April is the low season for tourism in Machu Picchu. This is when the weather is wettest and coolest, and the days are shorter. However, it is also the least crowded time to visit, and prices for hotels, tours, and transportation are lower.

If you’re not afraid of a little rain, and you’re looking for a more affordable and less crowded experience, the low season is a great option. Just be aware that some attractions may be closed during this time, and the weather can be unpredictable.

Weather in Machu Picchu by Month

The following table shows the average temperature and rainfall in Machu Picchu by month.

| Month | Temperature (C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|—|—|—|
| January | 14 | 100 |
| February | 15 | 100 |
| March | 16 | 100 |
| April | 17 | 100 |
| May | 18 | 100 |
| June | 18 | 60 |
| July | 18 | 30 |
| August | 18 | 20 |
| September | 17 | 20 |
| October | 16 | 30 |
| November | 15 | 40 |
| December | 14 | 50 |

Things to Consider When Choosing When to Visit Machu Picchu

When choosing when to visit Machu Picchu, there are a few things to consider.

Your Budget

The cost of visiting Machu Picchu varies depending on the time of year. During the peak season, prices for hotels, tours, and transportation are higher. If you’re on a tight budget, the shoulder season or low season is a better option.

Your Travel Style

If you’re looking for a relaxed and less crowded experience, the shoulder season or low season is a better option. However, if you’re not afraid of crowds, and you want to experience Machu Picchu at its best, the peak season is a good option.

Other Activities You Want to Do in the Area

If you’re planning to do other activities in the area, such as hiking or visiting other Inca ruins, the shoulder season or low season is a better option. This is because the weather is more unpredictable during this time, and some attractions may be closed.

Your Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you’re flexible, the shoulder season or low season is a great option. However, if you’re looking for a specific experience, the peak season may be a better option.

Machu Picchu is a beautiful and awe-inspiring destination that can be enjoyed year-round. The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and budget.

When To Travel To Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. The ancient Inca city is located high in the Andes Mountains, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. But when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is generally clear and sunny, with mild temperatures. However, it can also be quite busy during this time, so you may want to book your trip well in advance.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, you may want to consider visiting Machu Picchu during the rainy season, which runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is more unpredictable, with rain and fog being more common. However, there will be fewer tourists, so you’ll have more of the ruins to yourself.

No matter when you decide to visit Machu Picchu, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

Planning Your Trip to Machu Picchu

Once you’ve decided when to visit Machu Picchu, it’s time to start planning your trip. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • How will you get to Machu Picchu? There are a few different ways to get to Machu Picchu. You can fly into Cusco, the nearest city, and then take a bus or train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. You can also hike the Inca Trail, which is a challenging but rewarding way to reach the ruins.
  • Where will you stay? There are a few different accommodation options in Aguas Calientes, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. You can also stay in one of the many hotels in Cusco and take a day trip to Machu Picchu.
  • What will you do in Machu Picchu? There are plenty of things to do in Machu Picchu, including exploring the ruins, hiking in the surrounding area, and taking a hot springs bath. You can also learn about the Inca culture at the nearby Museo de Sitio de Machu Picchu.
  • How much will it cost to visit Machu Picchu? The cost of your trip to Machu Picchu will vary depending on how you travel, where you stay, and what you do. However, you can expect to spend at least $100 per day on your trip.

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Machu Picchu:

  • Book your trip well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the dry season.
  • Get travel insurance in case of any unexpected expenses.
  • Pack light and comfortable clothing, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Take sun protection, as the sun can be strong at high altitudes.
  • Be respectful of the ruins and the surrounding environment.

Getting to Machu Picchu

The most common way to get to Machu Picchu is by flying into Cusco, the nearest city. From Cusco, you can take a bus or train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes about 4 hours, and the train ride takes about 2 hours.

You can also hike the Inca Trail, which is a challenging but rewarding way to reach the ruins. The Inca Trail takes about 4 days to complete, and you’ll need to be in good physical shape to complete it.

Once you’re in Aguas Calientes, you can take a bus or a taxi to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, and the taxi ride takes about 15 minutes.

Accommodation in Machu Picchu

There are a few different accommodation options in Aguas Calientes, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. You can also stay in one of the many hotels in Cusco and take a day trip to Machu Picchu.

The prices of accommodation in Aguas Calientes vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodation you choose. During the peak season (May-September), prices can be quite high. During the off-season (October-April), prices are more reasonable.

Here are a few of the best accommodation options in Aguas Calientes:

  • Hotel Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge: This hotel is located right next to the entrance of Machu Picchu. It offers stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding mountains.

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When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from April to October. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, with little rain. The crowds are also smaller than during the peak season, from December to March.

What are the weather conditions like in Machu Picchu?

The weather in Machu Picchu varies depending on the time of year. During the dry season, from April to October, the weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 55F to 75F. The nights can be cool, with temperatures dropping to around 40F. During the rainy season, from December to March, the weather is more unpredictable, with rain showers possible at any time. The average temperatures are slightly cooler than during the dry season, ranging from 50F to 65F.

What are the best activities to do in Machu Picchu?

There are many different activities to enjoy in Machu Picchu. Some of the most popular activities include:

  • Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
  • Visiting the ruins of Machu Picchu
  • Taking a guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Learning about the history of Machu Picchu
  • Taking in the stunning views of Machu Picchu

How do I get to Machu Picchu?

There are several ways to get to Machu Picchu. The most popular way is to take the Inca Trail, which is a 4-day hike. You can also get to Machu Picchu by train, bus, or car.

What is the cost of a trip to Machu Picchu?

The cost of a trip to Machu Picchu depends on a number of factors, including the length of your stay, the activities you want to do, and your mode of transportation. A typical budget for a 4-day trip to Machu Picchu starts at around $2,000 per person.

Is it safe to travel to Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is a safe destination to travel to. The crime rate is low and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of altitude sickness, which can be a problem for visitors who are not used to high altitudes.

What are some tips for planning a trip to Machu Picchu?

Here are some tips for planning a trip to Machu Picchu:

  • Start planning your trip at least 6 months in advance.
  • Book your transportation and accommodations in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak season.
  • Get a medical checkup before your trip to make sure you are healthy enough to travel to high altitudes.
  • Pack light and comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Take it slow and don’t overexert yourself.
  • Enjoy your trip!

there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to travel to Machu Picchu. The best time to visit will depend on your personal interests and budget. If you are looking for mild weather and fewer crowds, the dry season from April to October is the best time to go. However, if you are hoping to see the ruins covered in snow, you will need to visit during the wet season from November to March. No matter when you decide to visit, Machu Picchu is a truly magical place that is sure to leave you breathless.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.