Best time to visit Machu Picchu: a month-by-month guide
Dry season, rainy season, crowds and the months when the Inca Trail closes — plan your dates like a local.
Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, but the Andes have two clear seasons and each one changes the experience.
Dry season (April – October)
Sunny days, cold nights and the clearest views. June, July and August are the busiest months, with Inti Raymi on 24 June filling Cusco with visitors. Book entrance tickets, trains and Inca Trail permits as early as possible.
Rainy season (November – March)
Afternoon showers, green mountains and fewer visitors. Mornings are often clear. January and February are the wettest months; the Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance, while Salkantay and train tours continue to operate.
Shoulder months: our favourites
April, May, September and October offer a great balance of good weather and fewer crowds. They are ideal for trekking and photography.
Practical tips
- Arrive in Cusco two days before any trek to acclimatize.
- Choose an early entry time for softer light and fewer people.
- Carry layers and a rain jacket in any season.
- Bring your original passport — it is checked at the entrance.
