When to visit Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu can be visited year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Here we tell you month by month what to expect.

Dry Season (May – October): ⭐ Recommended

The months of June, July, and August are the most popular. Clear skies, pleasant temperatures (18-22°C during the day), and the best conditions for photography. However, this is peak tourist season and prices are higher.

May and September are the ideal months: good weather with fewer tourists than peak season. Tickets are easier to get and hotel prices are more affordable.

Rainy Season (November – April)

Rains are more frequent, especially in January and February (the Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance). However, vegetation is lush and green, clouds create dramatic atmospheres, and there are significantly fewer visitors.

Advantage: Prices up to 30% lower for hotels and tours. Train and entry tickets more available.

Month by month

• January-February: Heavy rains. Inca Trail closed in February. Few tourists.
• March-April: Rains diminish. Beautiful vegetation. Good prices.
• May: ⭐ Start of dry season. Excellent weather/tourist balance.
• June-August: Peak season. Best weather but most crowded.
• September: ⭐ End of dry season. Fewer tourists, good weather.
• October-November: Transition. Occasional rains.
• December: Start of rains. Festive but humid.

Our advice

At Andean Magic, we recommend May or September as the perfect months. If you can only travel during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.

Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime

After guiding thousands of travelers to Machu Picchu, at Andean Magic we’ve compiled the best tips to make your experience perfect.

1. Acclimatization is essential

Cusco sits at 3,400 m altitude. Arrive at least 2 days before your Machu Picchu visit to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals, and try coca leaf tea (mate de coca), an ancestral remedy for altitude sickness.

2. Book in advance

Entry tickets and trains sell out weeks before, especially during peak season. Book at least 2-3 months in advance. For the Inca Trail, you need 6+ months.

3. Arrive early

The first shift (6:00 AM) offers the best light for photos, fewer crowds, and the chance to see the sunrise. Buses from Aguas Calientes start at 5:30 AM.

4. Hire a professional guide

A certified guide transforms your visit from simply seeing ruins to understanding a fascinating civilization. Plus, it’s now mandatory. At Andean Magic, our guides speak Spanish, English, and Quechua.

5. Take care of your health

Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen (UV radiation is very high at altitude), insect repellent, and at least 1 liter of water. Don’t forget your personal medications.

6. Dress in layers

Weather can change drastically in minutes: from intense sun to rain. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket, hat, and clothing you can easily put on or remove.

7. Wear proper footwear

Stone paths can be slippery, especially when it rains. Use trekking shoes with good soles. No sandals or new shoes!

8. Don’t forget your passport

Presenting your original passport is mandatory for entry. You can also stamp your passport with the Machu Picchu seal at the entrance — a unique souvenir!

9. Respect the site

Don’t touch the ancient stones, don’t litter, don’t feed the animals, and don’t stray from marked paths. Machu Picchu is a World Heritage Site.

10. Enjoy the moment

Yes, take photos, but also give yourself a moment to simply observe and absorb the energy of the place. Machu Picchu is more than an Instagram photo — it’s a transformative experience.

Ready for your adventure?

At Andean Magic, we take care of all the details so you only need to worry about enjoying yourself. Check out our Machu Picchu tours!