So you’re finally ready to take that dream trip to Cusco to see Machu Picchu, vacation days cleared with your boss, your family is ready when you are, but just like any other tourist destination, certain times of the year are better than others in terms of Machu Picchu weather. As you may or may not know, the climate in Machu Picchu can be quite consistent, with temperatures that mostly stay the same throughout the year. Different from most other places around the world Cusco only has two seasons to worry about, the dry season and the rainy season.
The best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu would of course be the dry season that runs from May to early September. This also means that more the dry season is basically the high season, meaning bigger crowds and higher prices on tours, flights and hotels. This is especially true for July and August, when it becomes particularly hard to find reservations. As for the weather itself, temperatures range from high 40s to mid-80s, but can drop to freezing in some cases. Due to the high elevation in Machu Picchu you will be heavily exposed to the sun, so try to remember to bring sunscreen unless you’re in the market for neat sunburn.
The rainy season goes from November all the way to April. However, Machu Picchu is still open for tourists unless some kind of storm causes there to be road maintenance. Temperatures don’t stray much from the dry season, ranging from low 50s to high 80s. It’s normally pretty clear and sunny in the mornings and rains in the late afternoons, with most showers happening during January and February. If by chance a particularly strong shower hits, roads to Machu Picchu may be closed by the government due to flooding.
There is one thing to consider though, Machu Picchu is also partly Amazon jungle, which means it can basically rain during every season. We tend to recommend visitors bring appropriate clothing during whichever season they go. There is a strong sun season (April to October), with an increase in temperature, so shorts and t-shirts could save the day. Keep in mind that the high elevation means that the sun is stronger than what you are used to, so make sure you have a good pair of sunglasses, a high SPF sunscreen and a good hat or visor.
The following are some items you should definitely take while on your trip of beautiful Machu Picchu:
• Clothing for warm and cold climate like a waterproof jacket.
• Rain pants or lightweight pants.
• Trekking shoes.
• Slippers or sandals (for showers and Hot Springs).
• Wool or synthetic socks and a sweater.
• Long- and short-sleeved polo’s/T-Shirts.
• Rain poncho and a hat.
• Bathing suit (for the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes).
• Sunscreen (very important), insect repellent (even more important)
• Camera (wrapped in plastic bag).
More info: journeymachupicchu.com
Machu Picchu Weather
