The Two Seasons in Cusco
Cusco has two well-defined seasons: dry season (April to October) and rainy season (November to March). Temperatures range between 9°C and 20°C (48°F–68°F) all year, but the big change is between day and night not between seasons.
Key fact: In Cusco the sun is very strong due to the altitude (3,400 m / 11,150 ft), but nights are cold all year round. That’s why layering your clothing is your best ally.
Dry Season (April to October)
Weather: Sunny days, cold nights. It hardly ever rains. The coldest months are June and July (temperatures can drop to 0°C / 32°F at night).
What to pack:
- Light clothing for the day (short-sleeve t-shirts, comfortable pants)
- Warm jacket or down jacket for the night
- Hat and gloves for the nights (especially June–July)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (a must)
- Sunglasses
- Cap or sun hat
- Hiking shoes or sneakers with thick soles
- Light rain jacket (just in case)
Tip: May is the perfect month the rains are over but it’s not crowded with tourists yet.
Rainy Season (November to March)
Weather: It rains almost every afternoon. Green landscapes, fewer tourists. January and February are the rainiest months.
What to pack:
- Poncho or waterproof jacket (not an umbrella, it’s annoying for walking)
- Waterproof boots or water-resistant shoes
- Quick-dry clothing
- Long pants (ideally waterproof)
- Backpack with rain cover
- Plastic bags to protect your phone and camera
- Still bring sunscreen the sun is strong when it comes out
Important: The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance. Trails can be slippery.
For Machu Picchu Specifically
Machu Picchu is at 2,430 m (7,970 ft), lower than Cusco, so it’s warmer and more humid.
What to pack:
- Layered clothing you can easily put on and take off
- Rain jacket at all times (even in the dry season)
- Footwear with good grip the steps can be slippery
- Trekking pole if you have sensitive knees
- Water (at least 1 liter)
- Snacks (there is nowhere to buy food inside)
- Insect repellent
- Cap and sunscreen
Prohibited items: large backpacks (+25L), tripods, selfie sticks, picnic-style food, umbrellas.
For Trekking and Hikes
If you’re doing the Inca Trail, Salkantay, Rainbow Mountain, or any trekking route:
Essentials:
- Well broken-in hiking boots (do not bring brand-new ones)
- Trekking poles
- 40–50L backpack with rain cover
- Sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C (14°F)
- Thermal clothing (top and bottom)
- Waterproof windbreaker jacket
- Wool hat and gloves
- Trekking socks (bring extra pairs)
- Headlamp
- Altitude sickness pills
- Personal first aid kit
Technical clothing:
- Convertible hiking pants
- Dry-fit shirts or non-cotton tops
- Thermal underwear
- Buff or multifunctional neck gaiter
Year-Round Essentials
No matter when you travel, always pack:
Health:
- Altitude sickness pills
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal medications
Documents:
- Passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Copy of your passport
- Andean Migration Card (TAM)
- Travel insurance
Tech:
- Power adapter (Peru uses types A and C)
- Power bank
- Camera and extra memory card
Money:
- Cash in soles (many places do not accept cards)
- US dollars for emergencies
For the Peruvian Jungle
If you’re going to Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, or Manu:
What to pack:
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (for mosquitoes)
- Light long pants
- Strong insect repellent (with DEET)
- Rubber boots (usually provided by jungle lodges)
- Hat or cap
- Headlamp
- Dry bags or waterproof bags for everything
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Jungle weather: Hot and humid all year (25–35°C / 77–95°F), with rain almost every day.
