Machu Picchu is a dream destination for travelers from around the world. But timing is everything. Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu can determine whether you experience magic—or a crowded, rainy, or foggy day with limited visibility. This guide helps you make the best decision for your itinerary, budget, and expectations.
From weather patterns and tourist crowds to ticket availability and photography conditions, we cover everything you need to know to plan your trip the right way.
Why Timing Matters So Much at Machu Picchu
Unlike other destinations, Machu Picchu is highly sensitive to weather, seasons, and tourism volume. There are strict limits on daily visitors, and ticket demand varies wildly depending on the time of year.
That’s why figuring out the best time to visit Machu Picchu isn’t just about avoiding rain—it’s about ensuring availability, choosing the right trekking route, and avoiding long entry lines. Your entire experience can change based on your chosen month and even the hour you enter.
Understanding the Two Main Seasons Dry vs. Rainy
The most basic way to think about the best time to visit Machu Picchu is to compare the dry season and the rainy season. Each one has pros and cons.
Dry Season (May to September)
- Weather: Clear skies, sunny days, cool mornings
- Crowds: High season, very busy
- Photography: Perfect light and visibility
- Availability: Tickets sell out early
- Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, classic experiences
Rainy Season (November to March)
- Weather: Frequent showers, cloudy mornings
- Crowds: Low season, fewer tourists
- Photography: Mystical fog and lush green scenery
- Availability: Easier to get tickets
- Best for: Budget travelers, flexible adventurers, return visitors
April and October are transitional months, offering a bit of both. They’re often considered hidden gems for those looking for a balance between conditions and crowd levels.
Month-by-Month Breakdown: Best and Worst Times
Let’s go deeper. Here’s a complete month-by-month breakdown to help you decide the best time to visit Machu Picchu based on your preferences:
January
- Rainfall: Very high
- Crowds: Low
- Notes: Unpredictable weather, wet trails, ideal for those who love misty landscapes
February
- Rainfall: Peak levels
- Crowds: Low
- Notes: Inca Trail is closed, but Machu Picchu remains open. Expect mud and cloud cover.
March
- Rainfall: Decreasing
- Crowds: Medium
- Notes: Greenest scenery of the year; better chances for sun after mid-month
April
- Rainfall: Low
- Crowds: Medium
- Notes: One of the best time to visit Machu Picchu if you want great weather without peak crowds
May
- Rainfall: Very low
- Crowds: High
- Notes: Start of the dry season. Excellent for photos and hiking.
June
- Rainfall: Minimal
- Crowds: Peak season begins
- Notes: Best visibility. Combine with Inti Raymi festival in Cusco.
July
- Rainfall: None
- Crowds: Extremely high
- Notes: Classic postcard experience, but expect long lines and ticket scarcity
August
- Rainfall: Low
- Crowds: Still high
- Notes: Excellent hiking weather, but you must book everything far in advance
September
- Rainfall: Slight increase
- Crowds: Moderate
- Notes: Great for trekking, fewer tourists than July and August
October
- Rainfall: Increasing
- Crowds: Medium
- Notes: Warm temperatures and golden light—ideal for travel photography
November
- Rainfall: Frequent
- Crowds: Lower
- Notes: Less sun, more cloud cover. Excellent atmosphere for mystic photos.
December
- Rainfall: High
- Crowds: Low to moderate
- Notes: Rain returns in full force, but greenery is lush and vibrant
Each month brings a unique atmosphere. So the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on your tolerance for rain, your budget, and your need for crowd-free conditions.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for Trekking Adventures
If hiking is your priority, the best time to visit Machu Picchu changes slightly. Trekkers must also consider trail conditions, mud, altitude, and weather extremes.
Inca Trail (Classic 4-Day)
- Best time: May to September
- Avoid: February (trail closed for maintenance)
- Notes: Dry trails, cold nights, high demand — book permits 6+ months ahead
Salkantay Trek
- Best time: May to October
- Avoid: December to March
- Notes: More adventurous and scenic, but can be dangerous in heavy rain
Lares Trek / Huchuy Qosqo
- Best time: April to October
- Notes: Less popular routes, ideal for avoiding crowds and connecting with local culture
For all treks, the dry season is generally the best time to visit Machu Picchu, not only for safety but for breathtaking views at high altitudes.
What Time of Day Is Best to Visit Machu Picchu?
The time of day affects your experience almost as much as the month. Understanding this helps define the best time to visit Machu Picchu hour by hour.
Early Morning (6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.)
- Pros: Peaceful atmosphere, fewer tourists, mystical fog
- Cons: Could be cloudy, hard to photograph key landmarks
Mid-Morning (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.)
- Pros: Best lighting for photos, tours start, fog begins to lift
- Cons: Increasing crowds
Late Morning (10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Pros: Full sun, good visibility
- Cons: Peak number of visitors
Early Afternoon (12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
- Pros: Most tourists leave, more freedom to explore
- Cons: Sun is strong, warmer temperatures
Late Afternoon (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
- Pros: Quietest time, golden light for photography
- Cons: Less time to explore (site closes at 5:30 p.m.)
If you’re a photographer or want to avoid crowds, the early morning and late afternoon hours might be the best time to visit Machu Picchu for your style of travel.
Ticket Availability and Booking Tips
Even if you choose the perfect month, you won’t enjoy your trip unless you get the right tickets. Entry to Machu Picchu is regulated with limited slots per hour and per circuit.
When to Book:
| Travel Month | Book at Least |
|---|---|
| May–August | 3 months in advance |
| March–April, Sept–Oct | 1–2 months in advance |
| November–February | 2–4 weeks in advance |
Tickets for Huayna Picchu and Montaña Machu Picchu tend to sell out the fastest. If those hikes are part of your plan, include extra booking time when selecting the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
How Holidays and Events Affect Your Visit
Some travelers want to combine Machu Picchu with festivals or local events. Others want to avoid them completely. Here’s what you need to know.
Peruvian Holidays That Affect Crowds:
- Inti Raymi (June 24): Inca Sun Festival in Cusco. Expect full hotels and busy trains.
- Fiestas Patrias (July 28–29): National holiday, large local crowds.
- Semana Santa (March–April): Holy Week brings regional travelers
- New Year’s Eve / Christmas: Fewer visitors than expected but trains may be limited
If you want to avoid crowds, these are not the best time to visit Machu Picchu. But if you’re interested in culture and don’t mind the buzz, they offer a more festive atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for Photography
For photography lovers, light conditions, crowds, and scenery matter more than weather alone. The best time to visit Machu Picchu with your camera depends on what you’re hoping to capture.
Best Months for Photography:
- April to October: Clear skies, warm light, less fog
- May and September: Ideal balance of light, greenery, and low haze
- November: Unique mood with clouds, vibrant greens, and fewer people
Best Hours for Photography:
- 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.: Soft light, mystical atmosphere
- 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.: Golden tones and long shadows
Avoid mid-day hours if you want to steer clear of harsh shadows and crowds. Planning your circuits and time slot wisely helps define your own best time to visit Machu Picchu for visual storytelling.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for Every Type of Traveler
No two travelers are the same. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family trip, or a solo adventure, the best time to visit Machu Picchu depends on what matters most to you.
For Couples
- Recommended time: May or September
- Why: Romantic light, great weather, fewer crowds than peak months
- Tip: Consider afternoon entry for a quieter, more intimate visit
For Families
- Recommended time: April, July, or August (school breaks)
- Why: Stable weather and school vacation alignment
- Tip: Choose Circuit 1 or 2 for a complete and manageable experience
For Solo Travelers
- Recommended time: March or October
- Why: Fewer tourists, better chances for spontaneous tickets
- Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid groups
For Budget Travelers
- Recommended time: January or February
- Why: Lower prices on trains, hotels, and fewer crowds
- Tip: Be flexible and prepare for possible rain
Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu according to your travel style can help you get the most value out of your trip.
How Weather Affects the Surrounding Areas
Many visitors don’t realize how climate varies between Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. Understanding regional weather helps make better travel decisions.
Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes
- Elevation: ~2,430 meters
- Climate: Subtropical and humid
- Best months: April to October (dry season)
- Rainiest: January and February
Cusco
- Elevation: ~3,400 meters
- Climate: High Andean, colder and drier
- Best months: May to September
- Tip: Spend 2 days here to acclimatize before Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
- Elevation: ~2,700–2,900 meters
- Climate: Mild and temperate
- Best months: March to May and September to November
If your itinerary includes all three, the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during April, May, or September for balanced weather and travel comfort.
Costs High Season vs. Low Season
Timing also impacts your budget. The best time to visit Machu Picchu for savings isn’t the same as for weather.
| Category | High Season (May–Sept) | Low Season (Dec–Feb) |
|---|---|---|
| Train Tickets | More expensive | Promotions available |
| Hotels | Fully booked, higher prices | Discounts and availability |
| Entrance Tickets | Scarce, sell out fast | Easier to book |
| Tours and Guides | Higher demand | More negotiable rates |
If your main concern is cost, then rainy season months might be your personal best time to visit Machu Picchu. Just pack a poncho and waterproof shoes.
Expert Travel Tips to Maximize Your Visit
To wrap up, here are key recommendations for choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu and making the most of your trip:
- Book everything early if visiting May–August
- Always reserve entrance + train + bus in one step
- Pack layers—temperatures change rapidly
- Carry a reusable water bottle and sunscreen
- Start your journey in Cusco for altitude adjustment
- Use the official website or a trusted agency
Remember: it’s not just about the day or month—it’s about planning ahead, choosing the right circuit, and adjusting expectations to the season.
Frequently Asked Questions Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
1. What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu overall?
The best months are April, May, and September. These months offer a perfect balance between good weather and manageable crowds.
2. Is it worth visiting during the rainy season?
Yes, if you’re prepared. Rainy season (December to March) means fewer tourists and lush landscapes. Great for budget travelers and photographers.
3. What’s the worst time to go to Machu Picchu?
Late January and February are the rainiest months. Trails may be muddy, and visibility can be limited. However, it’s still open and beautiful.
4. Does Machu Picchu close during the year?
No. Machu Picchu remains open year-round. However, the Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance.
5. What time of day is best for entering Machu Picchu?
Early morning (6:00–8:00 a.m.) or late afternoon (2:00–4:00 p.m.) are best for avoiding crowds and enjoying softer light for photos.
6. When should I book my ticket?
Book 2–3 months in advance for high season (May–August) and 4–6 weeks ahead for shoulder months. Last-minute tickets rarely exist in peak periods.
7. Which month has the least crowds?
February has the fewest tourists due to the heavy rain. March and November are also less crowded but with better conditions.
8. When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu with kids?
April, June, or July. These months offer stable weather and school breaks. Choose mid-morning entries for comfort and energy.
9. What month is best for photography?
May and September are ideal. You get bright skies, green landscapes, and great light in the morning and late afternoon.
10. What if my schedule is fixed and weather is uncertain?
No problem! Machu Picchu is stunning in all seasons. Bring layers, book early, and embrace the beauty of every condition.
Ready for Machu Picchu? Write Us and We’ll Help You Plan It All
If you’re still unsure about the best time to visit Machu Picchu, we’re here to help.
Our team specializes in:
- Personalized guidance based on your travel style
- Real-time ticket availability
- Full packages: entry, train, bus, and private guides
- Local insights to help you choose the perfect month, time, and circuit
Message us now on Instagram and we’ll help you build your ideal experience—quick, easy, and without complications.
Don’t let weather or ticket stress ruin your dream. Let us help you do it right.
