Machu Picchu Weather by Month: Plan Your Perfect Visit
Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet), Machu Picchu experiences a subtropical mountain climate with two main seasons: the rainy season (November to March/April) and the dry season (April/May to October/November). Average daytime temperatures hover between 20-24°C (68-75°F), cooling to 8-12°C (46-54°F) at night year-round.
Key tip: Weather dramatically affects Inca Trail permits (closed February for maintenance) and trail conditions. Understanding monthly patterns helps you choose clear views, lush greenery, or fewer tourists for your Peru Inkas Top adventure.
| Period | Rain (mm) | Day °C | Night °C | Inca Trail | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan-Mar | 130-200 | 22-25 | 10-12 | Feb closed | Low |
| Apr-Jun | 30-100 | 18-23 | 8-10 | Open | Medium |
| Jul-Sep | 10-30 | 20-24 | 5-8 | Peak demand | High |
| Oct-Dec | 50-150 | 21-24 | 8-12 | Good spots | Medium |
January to March
Heavy rains (130-200mm/month) make trails slippery, but vegetation explodes in vibrant greens and misty mornings create magical photo opportunities. Perfect for intimate visits avoiding peak-season crowds.
- Inca Trail: Closed entire February (Jan 31-Feb 28 maintenance); January & March available but rainy—experienced trekkers with rain gear recommended. Book March early as spots fill post-reopening.
- Average temps: 22-25°C days (72-77°F), 10-12°C nights (50-54°F).
- Pros: Lush landscapes, 50-70% fewer tourists.
- Cons: Afternoon showers (ponchos essential), reduced visibility, some trails slippery.
- Peru Inkas Top tip: Visit 6-8 AM before rains; Huayna Picchu tickets easier to secure.
April to June
Rainfall drops (30-100mm/month) with clearer skies and mild temps. Landscapes shift green-to-golden—prime hiking window.
- Inca Trail: Fully open post-March 1; April moderate demand, May-June high (book 4-6 months ahead).
- Average temps: 18-23°C days (64-73°F), 8-10°C nights (46-50°F).
- Pros: Sunny days, blooming flowers, great visibility, balanced crowds.
- Cons: Early April mud remnants; June cooler nights.
- Peru Inkas Top tip: April for deals, June for dry trails on Inca/Salkantay.
July to September
Driest months (10-30mm rain) with crystal-clear skies, warm days, and cold nights. Most popular period—golden landscapes and perfect visibility, but expect crowds.
- Inca Trail: Peak demand (500 permits/day sell out 6-8 months ahead).
- Average temps: 20-24°C days (68-75°F), 5-8°C nights (41-46°F)—bring warm layers.
- Pros: Guaranteed sun, unobstructed Inti Punku views, ideal photography conditions.
- Cons: Highest crowds (school holidays), chilly nights, dusty trails.
- Peru Inkas Top tip: Visit 6 AM opening; choose weekdays. Huayna Picchu/Mountain tickets essential (limited 200-400/day).
October to December
Gradual rain increase (50-150mm/month) but still mostly dry early October, greener landscapes by December. Great value with fewer crowds than peak season.
- Inca Trail: High availability October-November; December fills fast pre-Christmas. Easier bookings than July-Sep.
- Average temps: 21-24°C days (70-75°F), 8-12°C nights (46-54°F).
- Pros: Clear mornings, spring-like flowers (Oct), value prices, moderate crowds.
- Cons: November-December rains start (afternoon showers), December holiday rush.
- Peru Inkas Top tip: October best value; book early December. Early entry tickets beat holiday crowds.
