- A.h. Arahuay LL - 1, Cusco, Perú.
- machupicchuperutravel@hotmail.com
You are planning a trip to Peru and the idea of hiking the world-famous Inca Trail excites you. We would like to remind you that it is essential to book your trip months in advance, as tickets sell out quickly.
When planning your vacation, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is, “When should I go?” Weather and climate will undoubtedly play a big role in your final decision.
The Inca Trail is located in Peru’s Cusco region, where it can be difficult to get an accurate weather forecast. The weather is somewhat unpredictable, and it’s possible to experience all four seasons in an hour or two. However, there are distinct rainy and dry seasons throughout the year, and most hikers prefer to travel during the dry months.
Along the trail, the weather is generally mild all year round. On the Inca Trail you will find a wide variety of climates, from cold, high-altitude areas to warmer, jungle-like stretches.
To help you choose the best time to visit our incredible country and embark on this amazing journey, we have created the ultimate guide to the weather on the Inca Trail. It provides a month-by-month breakdown, along with some tips to help you get the most out of your holiday.
The most pleasant times of the year to enjoy the Inca Trail and experience the best weather are April and May or September and October. These months are quieter in terms of tourists. In addition, the environment is remarkably pleasant with little rainfall.
However, many tourists like to plan their excursion around other attractions in Cusco, and June is the best month of the year for this, because it is the anniversary of the imperial city and you will always find something to do, including the incredible recreation of the Inca festival Inti Raymi.
Please note that the city is busiest during the festivals and it is necessary to book hotels, restaurants and travel in advance.
Read on to discover the dry and rainy seasons of each month of the year along the Inca Trail and plan your visit to Machu Picchu accordingly.
During the rainy season, the weather is a bit unpredictable on the Inca Trail. You should always be prepared for a sudden drizzle. If you are traveling during this time of year, you should carry raincoats in your backpack. However, there may also be no precipitation for a day or two.
The rainiest months are January and February. In fact, the Inca Trail is closed in February due to rainfall and maintenance activities carried out by the government.
Below you will find out what to expect during the rainy season each month of the year:
November marks the end of the dry season in Cusco. Along the route, you will see arid fields without much vegetation due to the dry season. The later you travel in November, the more rainfall you will see.
The temperature on the Inca Trail during this month is generally pleasant and you will feel comfortable for most of the trip. The average weather is 66 °F during the day and 41 °F at night.
This month is the beginning of summer across the country and most domestic tourists go on vacation. The overall temperature on the road is still warm (66°F during the day and 45°F at night), but you will see some rain. December is a good month to travel if you want to avoid the big crowds; be sure to bring raincoats.
Rain starts to appear on most days. The sun hides behind the clouds, but occasionally comes out to provide warmth. You will still experience rays of sunshine during the day and feel temperatures of 64°F during the day and 45°F at night.
As we already mentioned, the Inca Trail is closed in February. Heavy rains are expected and wet ground could cause accidents and slips. You won’t be able to reserve a spot on the trail during this month, but some other routes are open if you are in Cusco. However, the weather is still mild, during the day you will experience around 64°F and at night 46°F.
Rain remains constant throughout the month of March, but there will be more breaks in the clouds and the sun will appear steadily. Visitors will begin to hike the Inca Trail again and the weather will be cooler. However, we recommend not leaving your rain gear behind. You will experience temperatures of 66°F in the day and 46°F at night.
Finally! It’s almost time to say goodbye to heavy rains for a few months. However, there will be days when you’ll still see some light drizzle. You’ll feel more sun on your skin and enjoy temperatures of 66°F during the day and 45°F at night.
The dry season is associated with magnificent sunny days and the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the Andean landscapes. However, it also means the arrival of several visitors to Peru who want to make the most of the good weather. At this time of year, tickets for the Inca Trail sell out many months in advance.
As we mentioned, preparation is essential when traveling during the dry season, as everything is booked in advance. If you book about 4 months in advance, you will be sure to get spaces on the trek and at the hotels of your choice. If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu upon arrival at the citadel, you MUST book well in advance.
Below is a better description of each month during the dry season on the Inca Trail:
That’s it, folks. The rainy season is over and the drought has begun. It’s not unusual to see some precipitation, but it won’t affect your excursion. The amount of rain has decreased considerably and May is known for having some of the most pleasant weather of the year.
It’s a lovely time to visit before the big crowds arrive at Machu Picchu. You’ll experience temperatures of 66°F during the day and nights start to get chilly around 39°F.
June is known for being the driest time of the year and you probably won’t see any rain. However, winter has already started and the nights on the Inca Trail are getting colder. During the day, it’s still a mild 66°F, but at night it starts to drop to 34°F. Also, keep in mind that June is one of the busiest months in Cusco, so be prepared to see quite a few visitors at Machu Picchu.
Just when you thought things couldn’t get any colder at night, July arrives. In this month, temperatures can drop as low as 32°F, but during the day you’ll be toasty again at around 66°F. This is the coldest time of year, so be sure to bring warm clothing for the evenings and a good sleeping bag. We recommend wearing sunscreen at all times.
Winter is almost over, but it is still quite cold at night. Temperatures can reach 37°F at night and 66°F during the day. The days are getting sunnier and there is occasional rainfall. August is packed with visitors and you will get some extraordinary views with clear skies along the Inca Trail.
This is a lovely time of year. Temperatures are usually warmer and there won’t be much rain. Generally, you’ll feel warm and can swim without any problems during the day. Tourism slows down again at this time, so it’s a good time to visit. You’ll expect temperatures of 66°F during the day and 41°F at night.
October Another of our favorite months. It’s one of the warmest and you’ll avoid the big crowds at Machu Picchu, while still enjoying fantastic views. You’ll find blue skies and maybe a light rain from time to time. During the day the temperature will be around 66°F and at night 43°F.
As you can see, the temperature doesn’t vary much throughout the year. During the day, you’re likely to experience a temperature of 66°F and at night around 40°F. Of course, it will depend on which part of the trail you’re on. The first few campsites are cooler and you’ll be at a higher altitude before descending into the warmer sections of the jungle.
The coldest month of the year on the Inca Trail is undoubtedly July. At night, the temperature can drop to 32°F, but it will still be warm, reaching around 66°F. June follows closely behind, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 34°F.
If you are traveling during these months, you should make sure to bring warm clothing and a sleeping bag that can withstand colder climates.
The weather on the Inca Trail is very similar to that in Cusco. Therefore, when there is heavy rain on the trek, there is likely to be heavy rain in the city where the airport is located as well. Sometimes the rainfall is so intense that a flight can be delayed or even cancelled.
But don’t worry, airlines will either reschedule you another flight, or you’ll just have to wait for the rain to pass.
You can check out our detailed packing list for the Inca Trail and you’ll get a detailed description of each item and some recommendations. But, if you want a general overview, you should bring warm clothing for the evenings and something light for the day, as it will be hot. Raincoats are a must, as is sun protection for sunny days.
Please note that you will only be able to carry a small backpack with your belongings and the mules will carry the rest!
