The weather in Machu Picchu does not behave like Cusco or any other city in the region. The site sits at 2,430 meters above sea level in the cloud forest, right at the transition between the Andes and the Amazon. This location creates a unique microclimate that often surprises travelers: days that start cold and end warm, sudden rain showers even during the dry season, and constant humidity that keeps the vegetation intensely green year-round.
Understanding the weather is not just about knowing what to wear. It affects the quality of your photos, the chances of seeing the site clear at sunrise, trail conditions if you hike the Inca Trail, and overall the type of experience you will have.
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The two seasons
The year in Machu Picchu is divided into two clearly defined seasons. The dry season runs from May to October, and the rainy season from November to April, with February being the wettest month and the only one when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance.
Within this division, there are important nuances. The dry season does not mean zero rain light showers can still occur in the afternoons, even in July. And the rainy season does not mean constant rain all day mornings are often the clearest time, even in January.
January
January is the peak of the rainy season. Rainfall is frequent and intense, often lasting several hours, especially in the afternoons and evenings. Daytime temperatures reach around 18–19°C (64–66°F), while nighttime lows drop to 7–8°C (45–46°F). Humidity is high throughout the month, and fog frequently covers the site in the mornings. The landscape is at its greenest, and waterfalls along the Inca Trail are at their most impressive.
February
February is the rainiest month of the year and the only time when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance. Rainfall is at its most intense, and visibility can be very limited for several consecutive days. Temperatures are similar to January, with highs around 18°C (64°F) and lows around 7°C (45°F). The citadel remains open, but conditions are the most challenging of the year.
March
March marks the beginning of the transition. Rain is still frequent in the first half of the month but gradually decreases toward the end. Daytime temperatures rise slightly to 19–20°C (66–68°F), and mornings begin to have more clear periods compared to January and February. The landscape remains lush and vibrant.
April
April is one of the best and most underrated months to visit Machu Picchu. Rain becomes less frequent, though occasional afternoon showers still occur. Daytime highs are around 20°C (68°F), with lows near 8°C (46°F). Skies are often clear, and the vegetation still retains the deep green from the rainy season. Visitor numbers are moderate.
May
May offers the most balanced weather of the year. Rain is minimal, skies are consistently clear, daytime temperatures range between 20–22°C (68–72°F), and nighttime lows are around 7–8°C (45–46°F). The landscape still holds some of the lushness from recent rains. Sunrise light in May is considered among the best of the year, making it a favorite month for photographers and experienced guides.
June
June has very clear skies and is one of the busiest months alongside July. Daytime temperatures are around 19–20°C (66–68°F), but nights are much colder, dropping to 3–4°C (37–39°F), especially on the Inca Trail where temperatures can fall below freezing. Rain is minimal, though occasional light drizzle may occur. The Inti Raymi festival on June 24 brings a surge of visitors to the region.
July
July is the most visited month of the year, with stable weather conditions: clear skies almost every day, daytime temperatures between 18–20°C (64–68°F), and lows of 4–6°C (39–43°F). Winds are more frequent, especially in exposed areas. Peru’s Independence Day on July 28–29 brings additional domestic tourism.
August
August has weather conditions very similar to July, with clear skies, daytime temperatures of 18–20°C (64–68°F), and lows of 5–7°C (41–45°F). Dry winds can be noticeable. Visitor numbers begin to decrease slightly toward the second half of the month.
September
September offers some of the best overall conditions: fewer visitors than July and August and still excellent weather. Daytime highs reach 20–22°C (68–72°F), and nighttime lows moderate to around 7–8°C (45–46°F). Rainfall begins to increase slightly toward the end of the month but remains manageable. It is one of the best months for balance between weather, crowds, and price.
October
October marks the transition into the rainy season. Rain begins to return gradually, mainly in the afternoons and evenings. Daytime temperatures stay around 20°C (68°F), with lows of 8–9°C (46–48°F). Mornings are still often clear and are the best time to visit. Vegetation becomes greener again, and visitor numbers drop significantly.
November
November is already part of the rainy season, though rainfall is still moderate compared to January and February. Rain is more frequent than in October, but mornings are often clear. Temperatures range between 18–20°C (64–68°F) during the day and 8–9°C (46–48°F) at night. The site is quieter, and travel costs are lower.
December
December has similar conditions to November, with frequent afternoon rain. The first half of the month is usually more stable than the second. Temperatures remain consistent, with highs of 18–19°C (64–66°F) and lows of 7–8°C (45–46°F). The holiday season brings a temporary increase in visitors between late December and early January.
Monthly temperature and rainfall summary
- January: high 18°C, low 7°C, heavy rain, frequent fog
- February: high 18°C, low 7°C, very heavy rain, Inca Trail closed
- March: high 20°C, low 8°C, moderate to heavy rain, transition
- April: high 20°C, low 8°C, low rain, start of dry season
- May: high 21°C, low 7°C, little rain, best month
- June: high 20°C, low 4°C, minimal rain, very cold nights
- July: high 19°C, low 5°C, minimal rain, peak season
- August: high 20°C, low 6°C, minimal rain, dry winds
- September: high 21°C, low 8°C, little rain, ideal balance
- October: high 20°C, low 9°C, moderate rain, transition
- November: high 19°C, low 9°C, moderate rain, low season
- December: high 18°C, low 8°C, moderate to heavy rain
What to pack depending on the season
During the dry season (May–September), a rain jacket is still necessary due to occasional afternoon showers. Nights in June, July, and August are cold, and if you are hiking the Inca Trail, your sleeping bag should be rated for below-freezing temperatures. Layered clothing is the most effective strategy to adapt to changing conditions throughout the day.
During the rainy season (November–April), a high-quality waterproof jacket—not a light poncho—is essential. Waterproof footwear with good traction is also critical because wet stone steps can be slippery. A rain cover for your backpack and camera will protect your gear from constant moisture.
Peru Sites helps you plan according to your travel dates
At Peru Sites, we provide detailed information about weather conditions based on your travel month and help you prepare the right gear for the season. If your dates are flexible, we can also advise you on the best time to visit based on weather, crowds, and prices.
