Machu Picchu is an Inca citadel located in the subtropical zone (jungle) of Cusco, in the eastern part of the Andes Mountains. The weather in Machu Picchu is highly variable and changes every day. Due to global warming, predicting the weather has become challenging. The temperature can fluctuate significantly according to the climate. Machu Picchu’s mountainous location makes it susceptible to cold winds, and the surrounding rainforest introduces another unpredictable element. Generally, Machu Picchu’s climate can be categorized into two seasons: wet and dry. Even within these seasons, it’s not uncommon for drastic and rapid changes to occur on the same day.
Machu Picchu features a tropical and humid climate that is pleasant for visitors, experiencing two distinct times: the dry season and the rainy season.
Table of Contents
- Climate in Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu Temperature
- Machu Picchu Season
- Machu Picchu Weather
- Machu Picchu Weather Month by Month
- Best time to visit Machu Picchu
- Best trips to visit based on Machu Picchu weather
- What to take to Machu Picchu for each weather season?
Climate in Machu Picchu
The climate in Machu Picchu presents a delightful variety of temperatures—cold, warm, and rainy days—typical of its subtropical mountain location in the Andes. This region is characterized by significant temperature fluctuations.
Year-round Machu Picchu Temperature averages
Daytime: The average daily temperature ranges between 20°C and 23°C.
Nighttime: The average nighttime temperature is between 1°C and 8°C.
Rain: It rains for approximately 223 days, with a total rainfall of about 737 mm.
Sunshine: Machu Picchu enjoys around 3335 hours of sunshine per year.
Maximum temperature: Ranges between 20°C and 23°C
Hottest month: Typically reaches 23°C in October
Coldest month: Usually around 20°C in January
Night temperature: Ranges from 1°C to 8°C
Dry days: Approximately 142 days
Days with rain: About 223 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: Approximately 737 mm
Number of hours of sunshine: Around 3335 hours
From November to March, the maximum temperature can reach 25ºC, with a minimum temperature dropping to 12ºC. Conversely, from April to October, the maximum temperature can reach 27ºC, with a minimum temperature dropping to 8ºC.
Machu Picchu Temperature
This graph shows the average maximum temperature (red) and minimum temperature (blue) for Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Season
Machu Picchu, situated at an elevation of about 2,400 meters in the Andes, experiences a subtropical mountain climate, leading to significant temperature variations throughout the day and across seasons. The proximity to the sea influences humidity, resulting in occasional rain, especially in summer.
Summer (December to March): Hot and humid with an average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. Expect rainfall, so bring a raincoat.
Autumn (April to June): Cooler and drier, with an average temperature around 15 degrees Celsius. Ideal for those who prefer milder weather and less rain.
Winter (July to September): Cold and dry, with average daily temperatures possibly dropping below 10 degrees Celsius. Perfect for cold-weather hiking and sunny days.
Spring (October to November): Unpredictable weather with fluctuating temperatures, combining both rain and sunshine. Suitable for flexible travelers open to weather variations.
Machu Picchu Wet Season
This graph shows the average rainfall per month for Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Weather
This table summarizes the average weather per month for Machu Picchu, based on 10 years of data. While there may be variations from year to year, the table offers a reliable overview of the weather conditions in any given month.
Machu Picchu Weather Month by Month
Curious about the average weather in Machu Picchu? Here, we provide a month-by-month breakdown of Machu Picchu’s weather and offer insights on the best times to visit. Discover monthly averages for sunshine, the percent chance of rain, cloud cover, and the number of rainy days during your visit.
Machu Picchu in January Weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in January?
On average, it is maximum 20° in January Machu Picchu and at least around 8° degrees. In january there are 22 days of rainfall with a total of 155 mm and it will be dry 9 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 20°C
Minimum temperature: 8°C
Dry days: 9 days
Days with rain: 22 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 155mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 8 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4″
Machu Picchu February weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in February?
On average, it is maximum 20° in February Machu Picchu and at least around 8° degrees. In February there are 20 days of rainfall with a total of 120 mm and it will be dry 8 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 20°C
Minimum temperature: 8°C
Dry days: 8 days
Days with rain: 20 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 120mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4″
Machu Picchu in March weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in March?
On average, it is maximum 20° in march Machu Picchu and at least around 8° degrees. In march there are 22 days of rainfall with a total of 116 mm and it will be dry 9 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 20°C
Minimum temperature: 8°C
Dry days: 9 days
Days with rain: 22 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 116mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 8 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 3
April weather in Machu Picchu
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in April?
On average, it is maximum 21° in April Machu Picchu and at least around 6° degrees. In April there are 20 days of rainfall with a total of 41 mm and it will be dry 10 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 21°C
Minimum temperature: 6°C
Dry days: 10 Take
Days with rain: 20 Take
Days with snow: 0 Take
Total rainfall: 41 mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 9 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4
Machu Picchu in May weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in May?
On average, it is maximum 21° in May Machu Picchu and at least around 4° degrees. In may there are 16 days of rainfall with a total of 9 mm and it will be dry 15 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 21°C
Minimum temperature: 4°C
Dry days: 15 days
Days with rain: 16 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 9mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 10 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 3
Machu Picchu in June weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in June?
On average, it is maximum 20° in June Machu Picchu and at least around 2° degrees. In June there are 11 days of rainfall with a total of 19 mm and it will be dry 19 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 20°C
Minimum temperature: 2°C
Dry days: 19 days
Days with rain: 11 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 19mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 10 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 3
Machu Picchu in July weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in July?
On average, it is maximum 20° in July Machu Picchu and at least around 1° degrees. In July there are 11 days of rainfall with a total of 9 mm and it will be dry 20 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 20°C
Minimum temperature: 1°C
Dry days: 20 days
Days with rain: 11 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 9mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 11 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 3
Machu Picchu in August weather
What is the weather like for Machu Picchu in August?
On average, it is maximum 21° in August Machu Picchu and at least around 3° degrees. In August there are 16 days of rainfall with a total of 10 mm and it will be dry 15 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 21°C
Minimum temperature: 3°C
Dry days: 15 days
Days with rain: 16 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 10mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 11 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4
Machu Picchu in September weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in September?
On average, it is maximum 21° in September Machu Picchu and at least around 5° degrees. In September there are 20 days of rainfall with a total of 18 mm and it will be dry 10 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 21°C
Minimum temperature: 5°C
Dry days: 10 days
Days with rain: 20 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 18mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 10 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4
Machu Picchu in October weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in October?
On average, it is maximum 23° in October Machu Picchu and at least around 7° degrees. In October there are 22 days of rainfall with a total of 44 mm and it will be dry 9 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 23°C
Minimum temperature: 7°C
Dry days: 9 days
Days with rain: 22 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 44mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 10 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4
Machu Picchu in November weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in November?
On average, it is maximum 23° in November Machu Picchu and at least around 7° degrees. In November there are 21 days of rainfall with a total of 78 mm and it will be dry 9 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 23°C
Minimum temperature: 7°C
Dry days: 9 Take
Days with rain: 21 Take
Days with snow: 0 Take
Total rainfall: 78 mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 9 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4
Machu Picchu December weather
What is the weather for Machu Picchu in December?
On average, it is maximum 21° in December Machu Picchu and at least around 8° degrees. In December there are 22 days of rainfall with a total of 118 mm and it will be dry 9 days this month in Machu Picchu.
Maximum temperature: 21°C
Minimum temperature: 8°C
Dry days: 9 days
Days with rain: 22 days
Days with snow: 0 days
Total rainfall: 118mm
Number of hours of sunshine: 9 hours
Average wind strength: 2 Bft
Average UV index: 4
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu Weather
The optimal time to explore Machu Picchu is during the dry season, extending from April to October. In contrast, the rainy season from November to March brings heavy rainfall and fog, making the visit less appealing.
Visiting Machu Picchu during the dry season not only offers more stable weather conditions but also fewer crowds. If you wish to avoid the peak tourist months, it’s recommended to travel during the off-peak months, as July and August are traditionally the busiest.
One additional advantage of visiting in the dry season is the generally favorable weather conditions in this region of Peru. While occasional showers may occur, the likelihood of adverse weather is significantly lower compared to the rainy season.
Regarding temperatures, Machu Picchu tends to be warm during the dry season, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 25 degrees Celsius. It’s advisable to carry sufficient water and sunscreen. Nights may cool down, so bringing a warm jacket, especially if you plan to witness the sunset at Machu Picchu, is a wise choice.
In conclusion, the dry season from April to October provides the best opportunity for favorable weather and a more tranquil experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of this historic site.
Best trips to visit based on Machu Picchu weather
If you are planning to travel to Machu Picchu and have doubts about the Machu Picchu weather, Machu Picchu T and Machu PicchuT recommend the following Machu Picchu tours and treks. Our experience over the past 17 years has given us insights into the climate of the Inca citadel, guiding you on the best travels you can undertake and what to make the most of during your trip.
January Machu Picchu Weather: Usually in the morning, Machu Picchu has fog, and by 10:00 am, you can appreciate the Inca citadel and the green and colorful flora. We recommend taking the Machu Picchu tours by train; there are many options for tours by train, and you can choose the best for you. Trekking: If you want to hike to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, Lares, and Inca Quarry are the best hikes for you. These trails are safe during the season. The Salkantay trek is not safe, but if you want to take the risk, this trek is for you. Don’t forget to bring travel insurance for this season; it is recommended.
February Machu Picchu Weather: The Machu Picchu by train is 100% guaranteed and recommended, but we recommend you have an extra day. During February, there may be landslides or closures of train tracks due to the collapse of the Vilcanota River. Trekking: The Inca Trail tours are closed for maintenance, but the Lares trek is 100% guaranteed and safe. The Salkantay, Inca Jungle, and Inca Quarry may have landslides, and the trail is usually closed. We recommend you take the best travel insurance that covers trip loss due to bad weather.
For many, February is the worst season to visit Machu Picchu. But for others, it is the best season to visit Machu Picchu because you can appreciate the flora of the citadel. You just have to be lucky. Some days have fog and are cloudy, but on other days, it is sunny.
March Machu Picchu Weather: The rains have decreased; it has stopped raining a lot, but for many, March is the worst season to visit Machu Picchu. However, it is not true. In the morning, there can be fog or clouds, but it is the best season for Machu Picchu; the landscapes are beautiful with the flora. Find the orchids, typical green plants, and others. We recommend you take the train and recommend you have an extra day in case of emergency; one never knows. Trekking: The Inca Trail routes are reopening, and you can be one of the first to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Lares and Inca Quarry are safe to walk, but the Salkantay trek and Inca Jungle have to wait for the dry season. These trails are not safe, but it is possible to hike.
April Machu Picchu Weather: The high tourist season begins, with a lot of travelers visiting Machu Picchu—approximately 4,500 per day. Machu Picchu is crowded during this time. It is the best time to visit Machu Picchu in terms of weather, as the climate is sunny with a few cloudy days. We recommend taking the Machu Picchu by car or the Machu Picchu Amazon route; both are safe options. Another option is Machu Picchu by train, with many connections through the Sacred Valley or Rainbow Mountain.
Trekking: If you want to hike the Inca Trail, we recommend booking five months in advance, as there are only 500 spots available every day. Alternative hikes to Machu Picchu are working well, and you can enjoy your trip without worries. The climate in Machu Picchu is ideal during this month; it is neither too cold nor too hot.
May, June, and July Machu Picchu Weather: The dry season begins, and the mountains start to dry up, transforming the landscapes from green to yellow. These months offer the best weather for Machu Picchu, ideal for adventure or hiking. Alternative hikes to Machu Picchu are popular among adventurers; they are more affordable and accessible.
The nights are the coldest, and during the day, it is hot. You’ll have the sun accompanying you every day, and it is the season for mosquitoes, where mosquitoes are looking to bite you.
The Salkantay trek can be crowded, with over 1,000 trekkers on the trail every day. It can be challenging to capture the classic Instagram or social media pictures due to the high number of travelers. If you choose to hike this trail, we recommend selecting a responsible travel agency, as some companies may disrupt the landscapes by building igloos and hotels. This is an adventurous trek, and we recommend spending the night in tents to avoid spoiling or damaging the landscapes.
Lares, Inka Jungle, and Inca Quarry are excellent alternative trail options, with fewer trekkers, allowing you to appreciate the mountains and beautiful landscapes.
The second option is Machu Picchu by train, which is easy and fast, requiring less energy. You can enjoy the Aguas Calientes villages or take a dip in the hot springs. We recommend spending two days at Machu Picchu: the first day for arrival and the second day for visiting Machu Picchu and climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
June is the best time to visit Machu Picchu due to favorable weather, and it coincides with the anniversary of Cusco, Peru. Every day, the streets are alive with traditional festivals, where Cusqueña people, from children to adults, engage in joyful dancing. On June 24th, the most significant and central festival in Cusco, the Inti Raymi, is celebrated. The residents of Aguas Calientes village also celebrate Inti Raymi in connection with Machu Picchu, providing an opportunity to witness the solstice at this iconic site. If you’re in Machu Picchu during this month, waking up early to appreciate the breathtaking sunrise is highly recommended. This solstice celebration extends to all archaeological sites in Cusco and Puno.
August Machu Picchu Weather: August is the best time to experience Machu Picchu’s favorable weather, coinciding with the celebration of the Andean New Year. In both Cusco and Machu Picchu, ceremonies paying homage to the land, or Pachamama, are held. While this season attracts many tourists, it’s not enough to saturate Machu Picchu. The climate undergoes changes, with occasional rain showers beginning to fall, offering relief. Clouds provide intermittent shade, and the once-yellow landscapes are transforming into vibrant green. The fauna and flora are in recovery, creating a rejuvenated atmosphere. Nights are not as cold, and daytime temperatures are at their highest.
For trekking enthusiasts, the popularity of the Inca Trail continues, so booking in advance is crucial. Alternative treks like Salkantay and Inca Jungle also attract numerous trekkers, so ensure you secure your Machu Picchu tickets in advance, especially for the popular Circuit 1 and 2.
From Seteptember to November Machu Picchu Weather: September, October, and November bring diverse weather to Machu Picchu. During these months, the temperature varies, and rain becomes more common. Mornings often greet Machu Picchu with fog, making early visits less ideal. Waiting for a few hours might be necessary for the fog to dissipate. The optimal time for a Machu Picchu visit is between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm. Clouds tend to roll in during the afternoon, signaling the onset of rain in the mountains.
The weather on the Inca Trail is excellent during this season, offering picturesque landscapes and abundant flora and fauna. Alternative hikes to Machu Picchu continue to attract many trekkers. Some consider this season the best month to experience Machu Picchu, but it’s essential to note that the weather at Machu Picchu can change daily
December Machu Picchu Weather: If you haven’t visited Machu Picchu yet, this month is an excellent time to do so. Rain becomes a bit more frequent, and a gentle fog often covers the Inca citadel at dawn. While Machu Picchu may dawn cloudy, if you’re lucky, you can capture the traditional pictures for lasting memories. December temperatures at Machu Picchu are warm during the day, and the nights are not too cold, but they can be unpredictable. Rain might start, and temperatures can drop.
During December, Machu Picchu starts to embrace the festive season with Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. You’ll begin to hear Christmas music in restaurants and hotels. While there are no traditional festivals in Machu Picchu, Cusco hosts the Santuranticuy festival on December 23rd. In the main square, you’ll find traditional crafts and Jesus figures made by San Blas artisans.
December is an optimal time for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. Enjoy the flourishing flora, including flowers like orchids, and capture the best pictures. Flowers line the Inca Trail and alternative hikes to Machu Picchu. While it’s colder in the high mountains, near Machu Picchu, the weather is warm. If you catch the train to Machu Picchu, be sure to prepare your phone or camera for some fantastic pictures. If it’s raining during your trekking to Machu Picchu, don’t give up; arriving at Machu Picchu is the best gift.
Wishing you a Happy New Year, and we hope to welcome you to visit Machu Picchu.
What to take to Machu Picchu for each weather season?
Machu Picchu Rainy Season
- Daypack (12 liters)
- Rain cover for the daypack
- Rain poncho or rain jacket
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Cap or hat
- Sunblock
- Plastic bags to protect your passport and clothes
- Clothes appropriate for your hike or trip to Machu Picchu
- Gloves
- Some snacks like dried fruits, and others
If you are hiking to Machu Picchu, we recommend not carrying heavy equipment, only take the necessary items for your hike. Carrying excessive weight during the hike in the rainy season can become challenging due to the water.
Machu Picchu Dry Season
- Daypack (12 liters)
- Rain cover for the daypack (just in case)
- Cold jacket, sweaters, or t-shirts for chilly nights
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes
- Cap or hat
- Sunblock
- Insect repellent for mosquitoes
- Plastic bags to protect your passport
- Clothes appropriate for the dry season
- Gloves for the night
- Some snacks like chocolate, dried fruits, and others
This seems well-organized and covers essential items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
