Best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu: month-by-month guide
Dry and rainy seasons, festivals, Inca Trail closures and what weather to expect each month of the year.
The essentials in 30 seconds
- Dry season: April to October.
- June to August is peak season.
- The Inca Trail closes in February.
- April–May and Sept–Oct: the best balance.
Cusco has two main seasons: the dry season (April to October) and the rainy season (November to March). Both have advantages; it all depends on what you are looking for.
Dry season: April to October
Sunny days, clear skies and cold nights. The best time for high-altitude treks and photography. June, July and August are the busiest months: book early.
Rainy season: November to March
Afternoon showers, very green landscapes and fewer tourists. Prices tend to be more flexible. The Inca Trail closes in February.
Month by month
- January and February: heaviest rain; ideal for Machu Picchu by train and Salkantay with rain gear.
- March: transition; the Inca Trail reopens.
- April and May: our favorite: green, dry and less crowded.
- June: Inti Raymi (June 24) and festivals in Cusco; high demand.
- July and August: peak season; very cold nights in the mountains.
- September and October: excellent weather and good availability.
- November and December: rains begin and landscapes turn green again.
Frequently asked questions
01Does it rain all day in the rainy season?
Not usually. Rain tends to come in the afternoon, with clear mornings.
02Is Cusco cold?
Nights are cold all year (0–5 °C in winter); days are usually mild and sunny.
