Dry season or rainy season: what weather to expect in Cusco and Machu Picchu throughout the year, when it gets busiest, the main festivals and which months to avoid for the Inca Trail.
You can visit Cusco and Machu Picchu all year round, but the Andean climate has two very distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Picking the right dates changes your experience, especially if you plan to hike.
Dry season (May to September)
This is the most popular time to visit. Days are usually sunny, with clear skies perfect for photos, and rain is rare.
- Weather: mild days and cold nights; in June and July, temperatures in Cusco can drop close to 0 °C (32 °F) before dawn. Pack warm layers.
- Crowds: June, July and August are the busiest months. Book Machu Picchu tickets, trains and Inca Trail permits well in advance.
- Festivals: Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun) takes place every June 24 in Cusco, and Peru’s national holidays (Fiestas Patrias) follow at the end of July.
- It’s the best season for high-altitude hikes such as the Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain.
Rainy season (November to March)
Rain is heaviest in January and February, usually as afternoon showers. In return, the landscapes are lush and green and there are fewer visitors.
- The Inca Trail is closed throughout February for maintenance.
- Some mountain roads can be affected by landslides, and trains to Machu Picchu often depart from Ollantaytambo with a bus connection.
- Machu Picchu stays open, and the morning mist gives it a mystical look. A train visit such as the Machu Picchu Day Trip works well this time of year.
- At Rainbow Mountain, snow can cover the colors.
Shoulder months: April and October
April, early May and October offer a great balance: less rain than mid-summer, landscapes that are still green and fewer people than in June–August. They’re excellent months for the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu.
Month-by-month summary
| Months | Weather | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| January – March | Frequent rain (Inca Trail closed in February) | Low |
| April – May | Transition, getting drier | Medium |
| June – August | Dry, sunny, very cold nights | High |
| September – October | Dry to mild, first rains | Medium |
| November – December | Start of the rainy season | Medium-low |
Our advice
If you want clear skies and plan to hike, travel between May and September and book early. If you’d rather avoid crowds and enjoy green scenery, April, October and November are excellent choices. Send us your dates and we’ll recommend the tours that best fit the season.
