When planning a trip to the Inca marvel, many people think about the weather in Machu Picchu and what to wear. These are important things to consider before going to the Inca citadel. Thus, we want to explore these topics with Machu Travel Peru to make sure you have the best experience there!
Everything you need to know about the weather in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu weather
Machu Picchu has an average temperature of around 50 – 75ºF (12 – 24ºC) due to where is Machu Picchu located. It is in a tropical cloud forest between the Andean mountains and the Amazon basin, to over 2400 m.a.s.l. That means warm days, cool-off nights, a humidity of 86% on average, and a constant rain threat.
The average minimums range is between 46 and 52ºF (8 – 11ºC). But on the hottest days, it is possible to feel up to average highs around 69 – 80ºF (21 – 27ºC). These can remain fairly constant throughout the year. But this does not mean that there are no potential frosts, especially during May when the temperature begins to drop.
Also, three other important factors affect the Machu Picchu climate:
- The proximity of the site to the Equator.
- Its significant elevation. The Inca citadel stands at an elevation of 7,972 feet or 2,430 meters above sea level. The altitude sickness can be a problem when you visit Machu Picchu.
- Two well-marketed seasons throughout the year are the dry season and the rainy season.
Thus, you can see the beautiful lost citadel of the Incas hidden in the middle of a magic Peruvian cloud forest. Sunny winters and rainy summers make up the general climate of the subtropical lands of the Inca citadel.
The Rainy Season
Here is one of the interesting Machu Picchu facts. Between December to April, copious and intense rains are present all days over Machu Picchu. 75% of annual precipitations occur in this rainiy season, resulting in 91% of humidity all day. That means foggy days, humidity, rain, and muddy paths (Once inside the citadel).
Moreover, every 3 or 4 days, the mornings will be opaque totally. Also, it can have a few thunderstorms from time to time. If you see a virtual Machu Picchu map, you’ll note that thunderstorms can be seen passing through the slopes of the mountains. And although it is usually very rare, hail can be a possibility that we should not overlook.
The average minimum can drop to 46 – 52ºF (8 – 11ºC), becoming the coldest months of all year. But, not all have to be negative. The low number of tourists is an advantage for someone who wants the Inca citadel for oneself.
1. December
December is the beginning of summer in Machu Picchu. The daytime average temperature is 19ºC (66ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 7ºC (45ºF). Even though the temperatures are warmer, the rains are more frequent.
It is the official start of the rainy season, and this coincides with the low tourist season. Thunderstorms are possible throughout the day. During this month, the weather can be unpredictable.
2. January
The daytime average temperature is 20ºC (68ºF) and nighttime average lows are around 8ºC (46ºF). During January, the cloudy skies mark the Inca citadel weather. Especially during the early hours of the morning. But eventually warmer sensations are appreciated during the day and afternoon.
January is still rains but not frequent. It is ideal to take advantage of the sporadic sunny hours (if there are any) to take different photos. And we always recommend touring the place with a qualified guide. A guided tour will teach you about what is Machu Picchu and its different constructions.
3. February
The daytime average temperature is 20ºC (68ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 8ºC (46ºF). You can expect numerous persistent showers of rain. February is not one of the best months to visit Machu Picchu, as it is full of wet trails and covered in clouds.
In February, the citadel is also open, but the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance. However, if the weather is favorable, there are other hiking alternatives to Machu Picchu. Warm afternoons and humid nights characterize this month. But, sometimes, when the rains stop, and the clouds recede, the sun appears in all its splendor.
4. March
The daytime average temperature is 18ºC (64ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 6ºC (42ºF). March is, on average, the month with the highest rainfall of the year and is the coldest month. During it, the temperatures begin to transition to a slow decrease.
But the humidity maintains a much higher heat index. Most of the day, you can appreciate cloudy skies. March can also be a good option to avoid the big crowds. You will have plenty of free space to roam the ruins but expect to get a little wet.
5. April
The daytime average temperature is 21ºC (70ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 6ºC (42ºF). April is a month of transition for the weather in Machu Picchu. During April, rain begins to occur to a much lesser extent, welcoming sunny afternoons and lush greenery.
The skies are not so covered in clouds anymore, and you can try climbing the surrounding mountains. However, the flow of visitors has begun to increase.
The Dry Season
No rain, and plenty of tourists. The dry season goes from May to November. Warm days, clear skies, hard rays of sunshine, and a humidity of 77% characterize it. The average maximum can get up to 69 to 80ºF (21-27ºC).
No wonder this season will be the best time to visit and discover the meaning of Machu Picchu. Of course, you’ll have lots of tourists lining up to enter Machu Picchu and visit it. Hours of sunshine are twice that of the rainy season, and the ruins light up in all their glory. But, it is not all rosy, the mornings can dawn cloudy and rainy.
Machu Picchu is in a tropical rainforest. Nights there can be very cold, with temperatures dropping to 17-19 degrees. But, definitely, the perfect photos will be done this season.
1. May
The daytime average temperature is 21ºC (70ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 3ºC (37ºF). May is the beginning of the dry season in the Peruvian Andes. May is when the Machu Picchu weather can be truly enjoyed.
The days are bright and warm, but the afternoons have cooler temperatures. May is when visitors begin to flock to the citadel, and the spaces turn green. If you don’t know how to get to Machu Picchu, you can always go by train. So, what is the best month to go to Peru? Between May and October is an ideal time to visit Peru.
2. June
The daytime average temperature is 20ºC (68ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 2ºC (35ºF). June is, on average, one of the driest months to visit the citadel. Only two days of the month can have rainfall.
The chances of a clear day are guaranteed. The afternoons are warm, and the nights are cool. But May is when tourism starts to pick up again, so June is quite a busy month. Book your Machu Picchu tickets in advance!
3. July (the coldest month)
The daytime average temperature is 20ºC (68ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 1ºC (33ºF). And what is the coldest month in Machu Picchu? July is the coldest month of the year, but with plenty of sunlight every day. Just expect very cool nights with a chance of frost.
Moreover, during this time, it is possible to see hailstorms. And despite clear, sunny skies, the temperature can fluctuate from one moment to the next. Dress in layers of clothing.
4. August (best month)
The daytime average temperature is 21ºC (70ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 3ºC (37ºF). And what is the best month to go to Machu Picchu? August is the best month to visit Machu Picchu. The warm days and the pleasant sun are still present.
You can appreciate beautiful, clear views of the surroundings of the Inca citadel. August is one of the best months to visit Machu Picchu. Also, it is one of the best months to enjoy alternative walks like Huayna Picchu. An ideal moment to enjoy a honeymoon in Machu Picchu.
5. September
The daytime average temperature is 21ºC (70ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 5ºC (41ºF). This is one of the mildest weather months of the year.
The sunny days are still appreciated, but the skies begin to partially cloud. The nights start to get colder, and the humidity starts to rise. Occasional rainfall is no surprise, and the fog begins to show in the citadel.
6. October
The daytime average temperature is 22ºC (72ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 7ºC (45ºF). October is already a month of transition to the rainy season.
The little rains are already much more frequent, and the skies remain cloudy. Despite this, the sun is still present enough to give pleasant afternoons. Tourists begin to decline.
7. November
The daytime average temperature is 22ºC (72ºF), and nighttime average lows are around 7ºC (45ºF). Occasional rains in the afternoon and cloudy skies at noon characterize November. The weather begins to gradually increase along with the rains.
With the decrease in crowds, few tourists enjoy the Inca citadel. November is usually a month with incredible deals for those looking to travel on a budget. Many companies take advantage of this last time of the year, so offers and sales are common.
Useful tips for the Machu Picchu weather
- The rainy season occurs every year from December to March or maybe April. The ground at Machu Picchu will be muddy, and the steps inside the ruins will be slippery. So you must be prepared with good waterproof shoes with non-slip soles. Raincoats are also essential in these months, so make sure you bring one with you on the different Machu Picchu tours.
- During the rainy season, the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed for February. The government of Cusco has decided that this is the best month to clean and do maintenance on the Inca trail. On the other hand, this is a great time to visit Machu Picchu as there are fewer crowds and no hikers. Yes, it is wet, but you will get to spend more time wandering around the ruins.
- The dry season is from May to November, and it is a great time to visit Machu Picchu. The sky is a perfect color of blue there are no clouds and the middle of the day is warm. The mornings are cold, so you will need to bring your jacket with you and also a warm hat will come in handy. If you are planning a trip to Machu Picchu, make sure to do it within this season.
- The high season coincides with the dry season in Machu Picchu, so there will be crowds. Lines will be long to enter the ruins and to take the buses up and back from the ruins. The site is popular for Europeans and North Americans during these months, so hotels fill up and rooms are sometimes hard to get.
- The dry season and the high tourist season in Machu Picchu are the most frequent. So if you plan to do the famous Inca Trail during these months, you must book about six months in advance. This is to guarantee and secure your space on this wonderful hiking trail. There are only certain agencies that are licensed to do the Inca Trail.
- The Sun at Machu Picchu, as you are at an altitude of over 2500 meters above sea level, is strong. Make sure you take your sunscreen with you when traveling to Machu Picchu. It does not matter if it is the rainy season or dry season, the sun will still be strong. Take a good hat also.
- Some people seek to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu at 6 am. But it is worth mentioning that at this time, it can get a bit cold. So, be sure to bring enough warm clothing. A good jacket is essential to ward off the cold.
- You will need to stay hydrated at the heights of the Andes, where Machu Picchu is located, especially when the sun is out. On the Inca Trail, you can fill your water bottle at each Campsite.
- Not really much to do with the weather, but again, if you are doing the Inca Trail, take snacks and chocolate to help with the hike. The hike can be challenging, so remember to do a few walks before you leave home as it will help you on the test.
- Enjoy the weather and the scenery at Machu Picchu, no matter when you decide to visit. That’s the most important thing to remember. Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful places you will visit in your travel life.
- On the top of Machu Picchu always you’ll feel warm weather, not cold. Because, the citadel is closest to the sky, inside a jungle region. Therefore, the area receives a more direct influence from the sun despite cloudy skies.
“THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER, JUST SOFT PEOPLE”
As you will see, the Machu Picchu weather is one of the factors to take into account. Especially if you are looking to plan your dream trip. You don’t want to be surprised by unforeseen weather or heavy rain. It is important to know when we will travel and what will await us.
Together with the Machu Travel Peru team, we hope we have been helpful. If you want to know more about our different routes, do not hesitate to consult with our qualified advisors. Our team will be delighted to help you make the trip of your dreams come true.
We believe that any time is ideal to visit Machu Picchu. This destination is a magical corner that we cannot miss on our visit to Peru.
