The Best Time to Go to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu by season
Machu Picchu is open year-round, but the best time to travel is in the dry season, when the chances of rain are lowest. The atmospheric mists that sit on the mountain tops and wisps of cloud that gather in the valleys can happen at any time of year, and they make for some wonderful photos. To help you choose when to travel, we’ve split the year into its two seasons:
May to October
The dry season’s bright blue skies and sunny days make it the most popular time to visit Machu Picchu. Temperatures average around 22-23°C and rainfall is unlikely, although this doesn’t stop the early morning mist. Just 2,500 site tickets are available each day; expect them all to sell out, especially between June and August, which is also the most popular time to hike the Inca Trail.
November to April
The wet season is also the hottest period, with temperatures at Machu Picchu reaching 30°C and a very high chance of rain. The Inca Trail closes in February for annual maintenance, so Machu Picchu is at its least busy at this time. This also coincides with the height of the rains, so do watch out for slippery pathways. The rain does bring out the orchids though, so keep your eyes peeled for their bright colours.
