Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites and a bucket-list destination for millions of travelers.

Before planning your visit, it’s essential to understand how seasons, weather, crowds, and ticket availability can shape your experience.

Choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu can make the difference between foggy views and unforgettable panoramic moments, between packed bus lines and peaceful early-morning exploration.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need: the best months, weather patterns, trekking conditions, circuit availability, crowds, ticket strategies, and special considerations for visiting Machu Picchu by train or via the famous trekking routes.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable, views are clearer, and trekking routes are fully open.

These months offer the most photogenic sunrise moments and lower chances of rain interrupting your visit.

However—and this is crucial—Machu Picchu is open year-round, and every season has its advantages. Rainy-season months are greener, less crowded, and often cheaper, making them excellent for travelers who prefer calm and budget-friendly visits.

Understanding Machu Picchu’s Climate

Machu Picchu sits in a subtropical cloud forest at 2,430 m (7,970 ft), very different from Cusco’s colder high-altitude climate. This region features two main seasons:

Dry Season (May to September)

• Clear skies
• Minimal rainfall
• Excellent visibility
• Ideal for photography
• Cool mornings and warm afternoons

Rainy Season (October to April)

• Frequent showers
• Misty mornings
• Lush green mountains
• Fewer tourists
• Warm temperatures

Temperatures remain relatively consistent year-round:

• Daytime: 17–24°C (60–75°F)
• Nighttime: 8–12°C (47–54°F)

The main difference lies in rainfall and cloud cover, not temperature.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu by Season

Dry Season (May–September)

The dry season is considered the best time to visit Machu Picchu, with the highest chance of clear skies and stunning photos.

Pros

• Best weather
• Excellent visibility
• Ideal for trekking
• Long daylight hours

Cons

• Largest crowds
• Higher prices for trains and hotels
• Tickets for Circuit 2 and Huayna Picchu sell out fast

Rainy Season (October–April)

While rains increase, Machu Picchu becomes magical with mist-covered mountains and intense green vegetation.

Pros

• Lower prices
• Fewer tourists
• More availability for all circuits
• Beautiful misty, mystical views

Cons

• Rain can affect visibility
• Trail conditions may be muddy
• December–March have more frequent showers

Month-by-Month Guide: Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

January

• Peak rainy season
• Good for quiet visits
• Clouds and rain common
• Fewer crowds

February

• Heavy rain
• Inca Trail is closed for maintenance
• Machu Picchu itself remains open
• Good availability for all circuits

March

• Rain begins to ease
• Lush green scenery
• Moderate visitors

April

• Excellent shoulder month
• Perfect mix of weather and lower crowds
• Great photography conditions

May

• Start of dry season
• Fantastic visibility
• Weather stable
• Crowds increasing

June

• Peak dry season
• Clear skies
• Cooler mornings
• High tourist volume

July

• One of the busiest months
• Crisp, clear views
• Cold early mornings

August

• Ideal for trekkers
• Consistently dry
• Popular month

September

• Dry season ending
• The weather is still excellent
• Fewer crowds

October

• Light rains begin
• Still many clear mornings
• Good for budget travelers

November

• Rain increases
• Greener scenery
• Calm atmosphere

December

• Start of green season
• Rain, but still very enjoyable
• Festive atmosphere

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for Clear Views

For the clearest skies and best photo opportunities:

Best Months

• May
• June
• July
• August
• September

During these months, sunrise and early morning views tend to be less obstructed by fog.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for Hiking & Treks

Machu Picchu is the final destination of several world-famous treks:

• Classic Inca Trail (4 days)
• Short Inca Trail (2 days)
• Salkantay Trek
• Lares Trek

Best Trekking Season

May to September

Trails are dry, safe, and scenic.

Inca Trail Exception

The Inca Trail is closed in February.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu with Fewer Crowds

If avoiding crowds is your priority:

Best Months for Peace & Tranquility

• January
• February
• March
• November
• Early December

During these months:

• No long lines for buses
• More ticket availability
• More flexibility for photography

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu on a Budget

Cheapest Months

• January
• February
• March

Expect:

• Lower hotel prices
• Cheaper trains
• Discounted tours
• Easy ticket availability

Best Time of Day to Visit Machu Picchu

Morning Visit

• Early trains from Ollantaytambo
• Beautiful sunrise (weather permitting)
• Crowds build up from 9:00 AM onward

Midday Visit

• Warmest time of day
• Biggest crowds
• Best for train schedules

Afternoon Visit

• Fewer visitors after 2 PM
• Softer lighting for photos
• Excellent for peaceful exploration

Choosing the Best Circuit for Your Visit

Machupicchu currently offers 4 circuits:

Circuit 1

Panoramic upper terraces
Best for photography

Circuit 2 (Most Popular)

Long route + Classic panoramic viewpoint
Best overall experience

Circuit 3

Lower archaeological zone
Shorter, easier route

Circuit 4

Lower zone + access to Huayna Picchu

Huayna Picchu / Huchuy Picchu

Additional hiking add-ons
Require separate tickets
Limited daily spots

Best Time to Take Photos in Machu Picchu

Best Months

June–August

Best Time of Day

• 6:00–8:00 AM (soft light)
• 3:30–5:00 PM (golden hour)

Best Season for Green Landscapes

December–March

Weather at Machu Picchu Month-by-Month (Quick Overview)

Month	Rain	Crowds	Best For
Jan	High	Low	Budget visits
Feb	Very high	Very low	Quiet travel
Mar	High	Low	Green views
Apr	Moderate	Medium-low	Balanced visits
May	Low	Medium-high	Clear views
Jun	Very low	High	Photography
Jul	Very low	High	Trekking
Aug	Low	High	Clear skies
Sep	Low	Medium	Balanced weather
Oct	Medium	Medium	Good deals
Nov	Medium-high	Low	Peaceful travel
Dec	High	Medium	Christmas season

FAQs About Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

1. What is the best month to visit Machu Picchu?

May or September—perfect weather and fewer crowds.

2. Is Machu Picchu open all year?

Yes, except for rare maintenance closures.

3. Does Machu Picchu close in February?

No—only the Inca Trail closes.

4. Is it worth visiting during rainy season?

Yes—fewer tourists, greener views, and lower prices.

5. When is Machu Picchu the most crowded?

June, July, and August.

6. Best time to avoid fog?

Dry season mornings.