One of the newly added Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel set amongst the Andes Mountains in Peru. It was built in the 15th century, although no one truly knows what it was originally used for. It has quickly become a bucket list worthy spot to visit due to its fascinating astronomically-aligned design and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. But when is the best time to visit these amazing Incan ruins? The answer is here! Keep reading to know the best time for you to visit Machu Picchu!
January to March - During the first three months of the year, Peru is experiencing its rainy season. Temperatures this time of year range from approximately 55°F (13°C) to 75°F (24°C). Although the temperatures are relatively mild, it’s the precipitation you need to watch out for. It can rain about 138mm in January, 141mm in February, and 150mm in March. Although we highly suggest not to hike Machu Picchu during this time of year, you can still take the train up, and get to see some amazing views along the way! Plus, because it’s the off-season, you’ll find some great deals on private tours, flights, and places to stay!
April and May - If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail and climb Machu Picchu on foot, April and May is one of the best times of the year to go. Not only are the tourist crowds still small, but the weather is great. The temperatures are slightly cooler than the first three months of the year (approximately 53-77°F), and the precipitation levels drop drastically. The rain levels fall to about 68mm in April, and drop even further to 23mm in May. If hiking is on your to-do list when visiting Machu Picchu, this is the time to go! If you’re looking for even more info on Machu Picchu, check out our official destination guide!
June to August - During the North American and European summer months, tourists flock to this Peruvian adventure destination, and for good reason! The temperatures are cooler for outdoor activities, ranging from 48°F (9°C) to 77°F (25°C). The precipitation levels during these months are also their lowest of the entire year. You will only see about 17mm of rain in June, 22mm in July, and 24mm in August. But with lots of tourists comes higher prices on flights, accommodations, and tours. If you don’t like to be around crowds, or don’t want to pay the peak travel season prices, this probably isn’t a good time for you to visit Machu Picchu.
September and October - These months are the other best time to visit Peru and Machu Picchu, after April and May. The temperature will sit at a comfortable range of 53-78°F, making it ideal for those who enjoy being outside. The rain levels do start to pick up during these months, getting to about 44mm in September and 75mm in October, but it’s still great for hiking (if you don’t mind getting a little wet)! As another added bonus, there are way less crowds with North American and European schools being back in session. All-in-all, this is a great time to visit Machu Picchu. Want a hint? Purchase your tickets to Machu Picchu either for 6:00AM or anytime after 3:00PM. Although it’s an early start (you’ll have to start your day at about 3:30AM in order to take the bus to the base and hike up to the site), you’ll get to witness one of the most stunning sunsets of your life, well before most of the other visitors have even woken up! If you go after 3:00PM, the day crowds will have thinned out, and the park rangers tend to be a little more lenient about how much time you spend at the different sites. If you stay long enough, you also might be able to catch the sunset over the Andes!
November and December - Similar to the first three months of the year, November and December have warmer temperatures but high levels of precipitation. The temperature ranges from about 55°F (13°C) to 75°F (26°C). The rain levels start rising in November, reaching 86mm, and rises even higher in December at the start of the official wet season, at about 121mm. Just like the beginning of the year, Peru’s off-season will have less tourists, and there are tons of deals to take advantage of on tours, airfare, and hotels! So although it isn’t the best time of the year for hiking, you might find some great prices on a train ride!
Since becoming one of the newest Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu has quickly made its way onto the bucket lists of adventure and cultural seekers around the world! Did you know that at Acanela Expeditions, we have two trips where you can visit Machu Picchu? Our Peru and Machu Picchu Expedition offers a chance to hike to the ruins at sunrise, as well as to explore Cusco, visit a natural hot spring, and participate in a traditional llama blessing ceremony! On our Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Expedition, you’ll get to catch sunrise at the ruins, go trekking along the world-famous trail, and do a canopy walk atop the Amazon Rainforest! To request more info, please email expeditions@acanela.com and we’ll be happy to help!
Post written by Demitria Rounis