When planning our trips, we always ask ourselves what the best season is. We want everything to go perfectly, without any problems, and, most of all, to enjoy it. Therefore, for your adventure to Machu Picchu, we’ll give you the best advice to ensure a truly memorable experience. Learn about each of the seasons in this magical citadel, along with their advantages and disadvantages.

• When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
• The climatic seasons in Machu Picchu
  • The Dry Season
  • The Rainy Season
• Tourist seasons in Machu Picchu
  • The Regular Season in Machu Picchu
  • The High Season in Machu Picchu
• Advantages and Disadvantages of each season in Machu Picchu
• Tips for your trip to Machu Picchu
• Frequently Asked Questions

Panoramic view of the citadel of Machu Picchu

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

Imagine Machu Picchu under a radiant sun that immerses me in each of its structures and mysteries. There are also few visitors, and you have the entire area to explore without any problems. We all want an unforgettable travel experience, so we must take many factors into account to ensure we visit during the best time of year.

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the month of June, but why is it during this month? Learn every detail you need to consider when visiting Machu Picchu, because the best season also depends on what you think is best for you. From the dry season to the rainy season, from the peak tourist season to the regular season. Every aspect will be important in your choice.

Tourists enjoying their visit to Machu Picchu

The Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the must-see destinations that everyone should visit at least once in their life. Sometimes it takes us a long time to figure out the best time to visit, but what you should keep in mind is that it will depend entirely on you and your preferences. Perhaps you’d like to find it surrounded by a romantic landscape under a light rain, or perhaps with a clear view, regardless of the number of visitors around. Machu Picchu is ideal to visit at any time of year; you’ll always find a new angle to surprise you. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most memorable moments of your life.

The climatic seasons in Machu Picchu

One of the first factors we’ll consider when choosing the best time to visit Machu Picchu is the weather. Machu Picchu and the entire Cusco region have distinct seasons, divided into two: the rainy season, which runs from November to April, and the dry season, which runs from May to October.

• The Dry Season

  The dry season in Machu Picchu and Cusco, which runs between May and October, presents us with clear weather , with most days accompanied by radiant sunshine that seems to encourage us to explore all the attractions that the Cusco region has to offer. Each place we visit will show us its best angle, thanks to the clarity with which it can be appreciated.

  During this season, despite the sunny weather, we’ll also encounter very low temperatures during the mornings and evenings, so we should always dress warmly in these circumstances to avoid getting sick and to fully enjoy all the destinations we visit.

• The Rainy Season

  The rainy season in Machu Picchu and Cusco, which occurs between November and April, usually brings rainy weather. Not every day, but the chances of precipitation are very high. During this time, we’ll also appreciate the entire region’s much more vibrant and full of life, giving Cusco and each of its destinations a uniquely romantic landscape you won’t find on ordinary days.

  The temperature during these months is stable, so all you need to worry about is always carrying an umbrella, a poncho, or simply a rain jacket. Visiting Machu Picchu during this time will give us the opportunity to experience every aspect of its lush, colorful landscape, and, hopefully, in perfect weather.

Temperature in Machu Picchu

Tourist seasons in Machu Picchu

Another factor to consider is the number of visitors we’ll encounter at Machu Picchu, so we can plan the best time to visit. During our experience, we encountered two distinct seasons: the high tourist season, which runs from June 19th to November 2nd; and the regular season, which runs from November 3rd to June 18th.

• The Regular Season in Machu Picchu

  Machu Picchu’s visiting seasons are divided according to the usual visitor influx. The high season coincides with the dry season, which offers the best opportunities for visiting the Inca citadel. During these months, more routes are open, allowing for better distribution of visitors and admission tickets. However, we must reserve tickets for your visit at least two to three months in advance.

  This time of year will present Machu Picchu with a multitude of visitors, which can sometimes be a problem, but combined with the ideal weather, it can be easily overlooked. The fact that there are more trails (10 in total) also allows us to experience adventures we wouldn’t find on normal days. It’s important to remember that this situation will not only be found in Machu Picchu, but in all the destinations we visit in Cusco.

• The High Season in Machu Picchu

  During the regular season, Machu Picchu is less crowded and offers a better chance of finding the ticket we’ve been wanting. Ticket purchase times are shorter, between one and two months, so we can plan our experience without rushing.

  Another important factor to consider is that during these months, only six routes to Machu Picchu are available, but the most attractive ones, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, still prevail. The weather coincides with the rainy season, which can be a problem, but if we like adventure, and with a little luck, we’ll find the best time to visit Machu Picchu.

Visiting Machu Picchu in the dry season

Advantages and Disadvantages of each season in Machu Picchu

Discover each of the advantages of visiting the Inca citadel according to the climatic and tourist seasons. This way, you can enrich your experience and find the best time to visit Machu Picchu.

Tips for your trip to Machu Picchu

To help you find the best time to visit Machu Picchu, we’ll share a series of tips that can help you find the perfect time. Remember to always keep these tips in mind, so you’ll have a much more enriching and hassle-free travel experience.

• The best time to visit Machu Picchu will depend on your tastes and itinerary. Any time is a good time to visit; it just depends on a good attitude and knowing how to appreciate every magical angle you encounter.
• Reserve your ticket to Machu Picchu at least two months in advance during the regular tourist season and three months in advance during the peak season to ensure your entry to the route of your choice.
• Before your trip to Machu Picchu, acclimatize during the first few days in Cusco to avoid altitude sickness and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
• Visiting Machu Picchu with a tour will enrich your experience by providing you with proper planning, extensive historical information, and safety at every step.
• If you decide to travel to Machu Picchu during the rainy season (November–March), be prepared with waterproof clothing or a rain poncho, as the weather can change at any time.
• Visiting Machu Picchu during the dry season (April to October) will provide the best views in clear weather, although there are usually more visitors.
• During all your trips around Cusco, remember to stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness and conserve your energy.
• Take advantage of your trip to Machu Picchu and calmly enjoy each of the landscapes you will find, its geography will allow you a space to rediscover ourselves.
• Part of the Andean tradition is to thank Pachamama for your travel experience, so you can enjoy Machu Picchu with greater meaning and value.
• The regular season at Machu Picchu runs from November 3rd to June 18th, during which time you’ll find six different routes for your visit.
• The high season in Machu Picchu runs from June 19th to November 2nd, when more routes (10 in total) with immersive experiences are enabled.
• Remember that with Boletomachupicchu, you can book the best travel experience in Machu Picchu. Ask our advisors about all the options available.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What is the best month to visit Machu Picchu?

  June is considered the best month, as it coincides with the start of the dry season, offering clear skies and optimal weather conditions for exploring Machu Picchu without any problems.

• 2) What are the differences between the dry season and the rainy season?

  The dry season (May to October) offers sunny days, ideal for sightseeing. The rainy season (November to April) offers greener landscapes and fewer tourists, but also a higher risk of precipitation.

• 3) When are there fewer tourists in Machu Picchu?

  During the regular season, between November and June, especially in January and February, tourist numbers decline.

• 4) Is it safe to visit Machu Picchu during the rainy season?

  Yes, it’s safe, as long as you take precautions. It’s recommended to wear waterproof clothing, appropriate footwear, and allow plenty of time.

• 5) Do I need to book my tickets to Machu Picchu in advance?

  Yes, during peak season (June to November), it’s best to book 2 to 3 months in advance. During peak season, 1 to 2 months is usually sufficient.

• 6) What is the difference between high season and regular season in Machu Picchu?

  The high season (June 19 to November 2) coincides with the dry season and sees a greater influx of tourists and more open trails. The regular season (November 3 to June 18) sees fewer visitors and fewer open trails.

• 7) How long should I acclimatize in Cusco before traveling to Machu Picchu?

  We recommend spending 1 to 2 days in Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu to properly acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.

• 8) What should I do if it rains during my visit to Machu Picchu?

  If it rains, stay calm and continue your hike with caution. Remember to always bring a waterproof poncho or a hooded jacket. Rain can offer unique views, giving Machu Picchu a mystical feel.

• 9) Are there any festivities in Cusco that coincide with a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

  Yes, June is one of the most festive months in Cusco, with Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun) and its jubilee celebrations being particularly notable.

• 10) What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

  The best time to visit will depend on your preferences and itinerary. Remember that visiting Machu Picchu is ideal at any time of year, as it always has a new angle to surprise you.

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Viktor G.

“The Temple of the Moon“

“I visited Machu Picchu in August and had the opportunity to visit the Temple of the Moon, it is a very mystical place that gives you a moment of reflection in the midst of beautiful scenery, every corner of the place surprised me.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, May 24, 2025