During the month of July in Cusco, you’ll find one of the best climates, allowing you to explore any of its attractions without any problems. There are also many cultural events and activities that will allow you to learn more about its incredible culture. In this guide, we’ll tell you why July is so special, what routes and activities you can enjoy, and how to make the most of your trip during the best travel season in Cusco.

• The weather in Cusco in July
• Places you should visit in July while in Cusco
  • Salkantay Route
  • Inca Trail
  • Humantay Lagoon
  • Rainbow Mountain
  • Machu Picchu
• Cultural activities in July
• Tips for visiting Cusco in July
• Frequently Asked Questions

Plaza de Armas of the City of Cusco

The weather in Cusco in July

In the Cusco region, there are two distinct seasons: the rainy season, which runs from November to March, and the dry season, which runs from April to October. The latter is often referred to as the best time to visit Cusco, given that the weather is completely clear and the chances of rain are minimal.

July is the best month of the dry season , as you’ll find sunny, clear weather every day, ideal for visiting any tourist destination. Although one of the downsides of this season is that it can be very cold at night and in the morning, we know the reason for your trip is to enjoy Cusco’s attractions, and you’ll find the best conditions for that.

Average temperature of Cusco

The rainy season in Cusco
is during the months of November and March. During this time, you’ll find the rainiest season in Cusco, which can complicate your visit to some tourist attractions. However, if you’re an adventurer, this season may be ideal for you. It’s also the season with the fewest visitors and the best temperatures throughout the day.

Places you should visit in July while in Cusco

The best month to visit Cusco is July, so if you’re visiting during that month, we’ll provide you with the best destinations and adventures to take advantage of the weather, see every angle in detail, and enjoy the experience without any hassle. This way, you can have a much more prepared and immersive trip.

Salkantay Route

One of the most popular hiking routes to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is the Salkantay Trek. It’s a 5-day, 4-night adventure that takes you through some of the region’s most biodiverse landscapes. On this trek, you’ll ascend to an altitude of 4,572 meters above sea level and enjoy both Andean flora and the jungle region.

The experience is a 74-kilometer hike that combines some camping and hotel nights. However, it’s such a comprehensive adventure that you’ll need ideal weather to make it easier and enjoy all the views it offers. Therefore, July and the dry season are the best times to experience it.

Road to Nevado Salkantay

Inca Trail

Probably the best and most comprehensive adventure in Cusco is the Inca Trail, an expedition that takes you through the biodiversity of the region, along with archaeological sites that can only be visited along this route. The total journey is 42 kilometers and consists of four days and three nights of camping.

At the end of the journey, we’ll arrive at Machu Picchu, where our adventure will take on meaning as we admire the citadel from its best angles. Similar to the Salkantay trek, the weather will play a key role in making it feasible, as it requires a great deal of effort to complete. The Inca Trail is considered one of the best hikes in the world, so if you want to do it during the month of July, you should book at least four months in advance.

Wiñayhuayna archaeological site

Humantay Lagoon

A day-long adventure that takes you to one of Cusco’s best natural destinations is a hike to Humantay Lagoon. This impressive body of water is protected by the Ausangate snow-capped mountain , which offers one of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see.

The route combines a three-hour drive with a two-hour hike, which can be quite challenging due to the altitude, although there is also the option of renting a horse for the ascent. If you find the clear landscape of Humantay Lagoon in July, you’ll be able to experience one of the most beautiful views. Plus, since it’s a day trip, you can schedule it any day of your trip. And best of all, you don’t need to make reservations far in advance; a couple of days will suffice.

Humantay Lagoon

Rainbow Mountain

The most visited destination in Cusco, after Machu Picchu, is Rainbow Mountain, a natural destination that involves an adventure through mountainous landscapes and some snow-capped peaks. The adventure lasts a day and also involves a three-hour drive and a hike of approximately one hour and a half. Ideal during the dry season, you can glimpse all the magical colors of the mountain in July.

The Rainbow Mountain is 5,200 meters above sea level, so you’ll need to acclimatize a few days in advance to reach it. You can also rent horses to take you very close to the summit. Day tours in Cusco generally don’t require multiple days in advance, so you can venture out and explore Rainbow Mountain from one day to the next.

Tourists on the rainbow mountain

ATV Tour to Rainbow Mountain:
A unique adventure to Rainbow Mountain is the ATV tour, which immerses you in an adrenaline-fueled ride amidst some of Cusco’s most incredible landscapes. It’s a day trip that you can book at any time; it’s best to do it with friends to make it even more memorable. Consult with our sales advisors and book your unforgettable experience now.

Machu Picchu

A must-see on any trip to Cusco, Machu Picchu can be appreciated in all its splendor during the month of July, with all ten trails open. Machu Picchu is located atop a mountain at 2,430 meters above sea level, so clear weather will help us appreciate its full landscapes and capture the perfect photo.

Since Cusco is the ideal destination, you should book in advance, depending on the route you want to embark on. For example, if you also decide to venture to Huayna Picchu, you’ll need to book three months in advance. This way, you’ll be able to visit Machu Picchu at the best time of year.

Visitors touring the buildings of Machu Picchu

Cultural activities in July

The month of July also offers many cultural activities in the city, adding value to your visit. Learn about the most important festivals and schedule them into your itinerary during your trip to Cusco.

Tips for visiting Cusco in July

To help you have a better experience in Cusco during the month of July, we’ll provide you with a series of tips and reminders that will help you feel better prepared for your visit. Discover them:

• The month of July is ideal for exploring all of Cusco’s attractions, as you’ll be able to see them in all their splendor in clear weather.
• The dry season in Cusco runs from April to October.
• If you want to visit Macha Picchu during the month of July, remember to book your tickets at least three months in advance for the main routes.
• During your first few days in Cusco, remember to acclimatize with light activities so you can venture to its tourist destinations without suffering from altitude sickness.
• Although Cusco’s weather is almost perfect during the day in July, it can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings, so remember to dress warmly during those hours.
• You can book your adventures to Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain a couple of days in advance, so you can schedule them as soon as you arrive in Cusco through Boletomachupicchu.
• The Salkantay trek and the Inca Trail are very physically demanding routes, so you’ll need to be in good physical condition and have acclimatized beforehand to complete them without too much trouble.
• The Inca Trail is the most popular adventure in Cusco, so if you want to explore it during the month of July, you’ll need to book four months in advance.
• Each of the landscapes you’ll encounter on your tour of Cusco deserves a stop and contemplate. Remember to take some time during your walks to appreciate all their beauty.
• Cusco boasts some of the best cuisine in all of Peru, so your visit in July should be accompanied by tasting typical dishes that you can often only find during this time.
• Remember that with Boletomachupicchu, you can book your ideal experience in Cusco during July. Ask our advisors about all the options available to make your trip unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Why is July considered the best month to visit Cusco?

  July is part of the dry season in Cusco, with sunny days, clear skies, and a minimal chance of rain. July also coincides with several cultural festivals that enrich your experience.

• 2) Is it very cold in Cusco during July?

  Yes, especially at night and at dawn. During the day, the weather is pleasant, but in the early and late hours of the day, the temperature can drop significantly.

• 3) Can I visit Machu Picchu in July without any problems?

  This is definitely one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu. The clear weather allows you to appreciate the citadel in all its splendor. However, it’s essential to reserve your ticket at least three months in advance, especially if you want to climb Huayna Picchu.

• 4) What cultural activities take place in Cusco in July?

  July is one of the months with the most cultural activities. You can experience Peru’s Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays) with parades and fireworks, participate in the Virgen del Carmen festival in Paucartambo, or attend local food fairs.

• 5) Is it safe to do long hikes like the Salkantay or the Inca Trail in July?

  Yes, July offers ideal conditions for these hikes thanks to its dry and stable weather. However, you must be in good physical shape and well acclimatized, as they involve multi-day hikes at high altitudes.

• 6) Can altitude affect me during my trip?

  Yes, especially if you’re arriving from sea level. Altitude sickness is common during the first few days, and to avoid it, you should take it easy, stay well hydrated, and avoid heavy meals.

• 7) How long do I need to acclimatize before doing demanding hikes?

  We recommend at least two days of acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before attempting hikes like Humantay Lagoon or Rainbow Mountain. You can take advantage of those days to take gentle hikes or visit nearby archaeological sites.

• 8) Is it easy to get tours to destinations like Rainbow Mountain or Humantay?

  Yes, these day hikes don’t require much advance notice. You can even book them two days in advance, just make sure you’ve slept well and are acclimatized.

• 9) What are the advantages of traveling to Cusco in July compared to other months?

  The main advantage is the dry and stable climate, which allows you to fully enjoy nature and archaeological sites. In addition, the cultural festivals provide an added value you won’t find in other months.

• 10) How can I organize my ideal itinerary for July in Cusco?

  Start by defining which destinations you want to visit and which require advance booking (such as Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail). Then, alternate acclimatization days with easy activities. Consider participating in a cultural festival and leave room for local cuisine. You can ask our advisors for help through our Boletomachupicchu platform to create your ideal itinerary.

Advice from people who have been there

Humantay Lagoon

By: Diego L.

“Recommendation for Humantay“

“The hike was more difficult than I expected because of the altitude, so I recommend starting the day very early, carrying water and having rested well the night before. In my case I went in July, the sky was completely clear and that helped a lot to enjoy the view. I hiked up, but several of the group rented horses and that helped them a lot. Bring sunscreen, a hat and a light jacket is key because it is hot going up, but cold at the top.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, July 15, 2025