The Best Time to Visit Cusco and Machu Picchu: Weather by Month & Festivals

Timing your trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu can completely change your experience — from clear mountain views to colorful local festivals. Whether you’re chasing perfect weather, smaller crowds, or cultural events, knowing what each month brings helps you make the most of your adventure.

I’ve visited during both sunny and rainy months, and each season has its own kind of magic. Here’s everything you need to know about Cusco’s weather, what to expect by month, and how to choose the best time for you to go.

Understanding Cusco’s Seasons

Cusco sits high in the Peruvian Andes at around 3,400 meters (11,000 feet), which means the weather can change quickly — think warm sunshine one minute and chilly air the next.

There are two main seasons in Cusco:

• Dry Season (May–October): Clear skies, sunny days, and cooler nights.
• Rainy Season (November–April): Afternoon showers, lush green scenery, and fewer tourists.

Even during the dry season, you’ll want layers — mornings and evenings can dip near freezing, especially in June and July.

The Best Time to Visit Cusco & Machu Picchu

Overall, May to September is considered the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu. The weather is at its best, the hiking trails are dry, and the views are spectacular.

Here’s a quick breakdown depending on your travel style:

• For adventure seekers: May–August offers the best trekking conditions for the Inca Trail and alternative hikes.
• For photographers: April and October are shoulder months with great light, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes.
• For budget travelers: November–March brings lower prices and smaller crowds, but you’ll need a rain jacket!
• For cultural travelers: June is Cusco’s most festive month with the famous Inti Raymi celebration.

Cusco Weather by Month

January–March: 🌧️
The height of the rainy season. Expect frequent showers, lush green hills, and occasional travel delays. Some trekking routes, including the Inca Trail, may be muddy or even closed in February. Still, Machu Picchu remains open and looks stunning under misty skies.

April–May: 🌤️
Rain starts to taper off, the valleys are green, and temperatures are mild. This is a beautiful time to visit — fewer crowds and clear views before peak season starts.

June–August: ☀️
Peak dry season and high tourism months. Expect sunny days, chilly nights, and busy attractions. June brings Inti Raymi and other lively festivals, so book accommodation early!

September–October: 🌞
Still dry but a bit warmer. Great balance between weather and crowds. Perfect for day trips, hiking, and sightseeing without the peak-season rush.

November–December: 🌦️
The rainy season returns, especially in December. Expect some showers but also fewer tourists and lower prices. The holiday season in Cusco is festive and colorful.

Machu Picchu Weather & Conditions

Machu Picchu sits lower than Cusco — around 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) — which means it’s generally warmer and more humid. Even in the dry season, you might experience brief rain showers or mist in the mornings.

• Rainy Season (Nov–Mar): Expect slippery steps and some fog, but greener scenery and fewer crowds.
• Dry Season (Apr–Oct): Ideal for clear views and comfortable hiking.

Note: The Inca Trail is closed every February for due to potential landslides, but Machu Picchu itself remains open.

Packing tip: Bring layers, a rain jacket year-round, and a waterproof cover for your backpack or camera.

Festivals & Cultural Events in Cusco

Cusco is known for its vibrant traditions, and visiting during a festival adds an unforgettable layer to your experience. Here are some of the biggest annual events:

• March/April – Semana Santa (Holy Week): A week of parades, candlelit processions, and cultural displays.
• May – Corpus Christi: Streets fill with processions and music, showcasing the city’s blend of Andean and Catholic traditions.
• June – Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun): The most famous festival in Cusco, celebrating the Incan New Year with colorful parades and traditional rituals.
• September – Cusco Tourism Week: Concerts, local markets, and art fairs take over the city.
• December – Santuranticuy Market: A Christmas Eve artisan market in the Plaza de Armas — one of the most festive times of year.

If you plan your visit around these events, make sure to book accommodation and Machu Picchu entry well in advance.

When to Avoid Visiting

There’s really NO bad time to visit Cusco, but the rainiest months (January–March) can make hiking and transport less predictable. If you’re planning a trek, check for seasonal closures and flexibility with tours.

That said, the rainy season brings stunning green landscapes and far fewer tourists, so if you don’t mind a little mud, it can be a beautiful, peaceful time to explore. It definitely has its advantages!

The Perfect Time Depends on You

Cusco and Machu Picchu are incredible year-round. Whether you want to dance through festivals in June, hike in August sunshine, or enjoy quiet misty mornings in February, there’s always something magical waiting.

Personally, I loved visiting in February. They mean it when they say it rains, but everything is bright green, and the city feels alive but not overcrowded. No matter when you go, Cusco’s charm will stay with you long after you’ve left.