What is the best time to travel to Machu Picchu?
The first thing to emphasize is that unlike the four seasons we usually know, in Cusco or the Andean region the seasons are divided between the dry season, which runs from April to October, and the rainy season, which takes place between November and March.
Now, the answer to the question “What is the best time to travel to Machu Picchu? The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season. The days are sunny and radiant. May, June, and July are the best months to visit the Inca City. In those days the Inca City has a beautiful landscape.
In addition, in those months Cusco celebrates its best festivities such as the famous Inti Raymi festival (June) orthe National Holidays of Peru (July).
During this dry season, the sun shines all day long and there is almost no rain, allowing for a pleasant tour of the Inca Citadel.
Now, in June and July, temperatures during the day can reach 25 °C or 77℉. In the early mornings, the lowest temperatures can reach 0 °C 32℉.
During the dry season, there is also the ‘high tourist season’ when Machu Picchu supports the highest number of visitors in the year and is sometimes crowded with tourists.
The rainy season in Machu Picchu
The rainy season is between November and March. Unlike what many people think, it does not rain all day long. In most cases, it rains only in the afternoons.
During those months, the Inca City can wake up covered in fog. However, with the passing of the morning, it will disappear.
In February and March, the rains are more frequent than in the rest of the year. Maximum temperatures can reach 22 °C or 71℉. Minimum temperatures are 8 °C or 46℉.
During the rainy season, there is also the ‘low tourist season. In those months you can get lower prices on hotels, tours, and other services.
Note: During the dry season, there are still rainy days (no one can decipher Mother Nature with certainty), but the chances of prolonged rains or that they can ruin a trip are very few, and also nowadays the rainy season varies every year due to climate change.
So now you know: get your calendar and start to set aside the dates that best fit your days off to make your vacation unforgettable.
What is the high season in Machu Picchu?
The high tourist season is between May and August. This time coincides with the dry season, but also with the vacations in Europe and the United States.
If you plan to come to Machu Picchu during the high season, you should book your entrance tickets in advance.
The Machu Picchu ticket can only be purchased 2 weeks in advance. The entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain needs to be purchased up to 3 months in advance.
In the high season, you will have to wait in long lines to get on the bus that will take you from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
During those months the prices of most tourist services go up in price. Therefore, it is advisable to book them in advance through the internet.
What is the low season in Machu Picchu?
The low season for tourism coincides with the rainy season in Machu Picchu. It runs from November to March and is characterized by the fact that in those months when fewer tourists visit the Inca City.
Despite the rains, according to some tourists, the low season is the best time to visit Machu Picchu. It is in those months that the Inca City presents its most intense green.
In addition, during those days it is possible to be in Machu Picchu with the least amount of people possible. Thus, tourists can visit the archaeological site with more tranquility.
Finally, during the low tourist season, prices are lower. It is possible to purchase tours, hotels and other services at low cost.
Frequently asked questions about when to go to Machu Picchu:
1) When can I get the best photos of Machu Picchu?
According to the tour guides in Machu Picchu, you can get excellent photos in the months of April, May, September, October and November. On those days it does not rain so much, but the landscapes are green.
2) When does Machu Picchu close?
Machu Picchu does not close any day of the year, except in exceptional cases of protests or natural disasters.
3) What is the worst time to visit Machu Picchu?
Every day of the year is a good time to visit Machu Picchu. However, some tourists do not like the rains that can fall on the Inca city in February.
4) What is the best time of the day to visit Machu Picchu?
Very early in the morning (at 6 am) you can get beautiful pictures of Machu Picchu. The same during sunset (at 4 or 5 in the afternoon).
5) Is it a good idea to go to Machu Picchu in February?
Although it rains a lot in February, you can still do the Machu Picchu tour and even get some great pictures. Yes, it is a good idea!
6) What is Machu Picchu like at Christmas?
Machu Picchu at Christmas time is filled with a special atmosphere in each of its tourist services: hotels, restaurants and more.
7) When is it cheaper to visit Machu Picchu?
During the rainy season (from November to March) it is possible to get cheap hotel reservations, tours, and more. It is recommended to make the purchase online in advance.
8) When does it get colder in Machu Picchu?
During the dry season months, especially June, July, and August, the nights are colder in Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, and the city of Cusco.
9) When should I not do the route to Machu Picchu by Hidroeléctrica?
The economic route to Machu Picchu by Hydroelectric is not recommended in the months of intense rain: January, February, and March. For the rest of the year, it is possible to do this alternative route without risk.
10) When are there celebrations in Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu celebrates its anniversary every year on July 7. That day commemorates its election as Wonder of the Modern World (since 2007). At night in the town of Aguas Calientes, there is music and dancing.
