The Machu Picchu weather is mild all year: warm, humid days and cool nights, because the citadel sits at about 2,430 m, on the edge of the cloud forest, much lower than Cusco (3,400 m). What changes is the rain. There is a dry season from May to September and a rainy season from November to March, with April and October in between. This guide explains the Machu Picchu weather month by month, the temperatures, the difference with Cusco and what to wear in each season.
Machu Picchu weather at a glance
| Dry season (May–Sep) | Rainy season (Nov–Mar) | |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime | About 20–24 °C, sunny | About 19–22 °C, humid |
| Early morning / night | About 6–10 °C | About 10–12 °C |
| Rain | Little; occasional showers | Frequent showers, heaviest in January and February |
| Views | Clear skies, morning mist that lifts early | Clouds that come and go; green landscapes |
| Crowds | High season (June to August busiest) | Fewer visitors, except at New Year |
Figures are approximate averages. The weather in the mountains changes quickly, so expect sun, cloud and a shower on the same day in any season.
Machu Picchu weather by season
Dry season: May to September
This is the most popular time to visit. Days are sunny and pleasant, and early mornings are cool, often with mist over the mountains that clears by mid-morning. June and July have the coldest nights. It is also the high season, so book your Machu Picchu entrance and train well in advance.
Rainy season: November to March
Rain usually comes in showers, often in the afternoon, rather than all day. January and February are the wettest months, with the most cloud and occasional delays on the roads and railway. The landscape is very green, there are fewer visitors and the temperature stays mild. The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance; Machu Picchu stays open.
Shoulder months: April and October
April, at the end of the rains, and October, before they return, often combine good weather with fewer crowds. Many travelers consider them the best balance. Read our full guide to the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu weather month by month
- January and February: the rainiest months; warm and humid, with low clouds.
- March: still rainy, but showers become less frequent toward the end of the month.
- April: the rains fade; green landscapes and fewer visitors.
- May: start of the dry season; clear days and fresh mornings.
- June and July: the driest and coldest nights of the year; peak season and Inti Raymi in Cusco (24 June).
- August: dry and sunny, often windy; still very busy.
- September: dry, slightly warmer; crowds begin to drop.
- October: warmer, with the first showers; a good shoulder month.
- November and December: the rainy season begins; showers become more frequent.
Machu Picchu weather vs Cusco weather
Cusco is about 1,000 m higher than Machu Picchu, so it is much colder. In the dry season, Cusco nights often drop to around 0 °C, while at Machu Picchu they rarely fall below about 6 °C. Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of the mountain (about 2,040 m), is even warmer and more humid. Pack layers: you will need a warm jacket in Cusco and lighter clothes at Machu Picchu. If you arrive from sea level, read our tips on altitude sickness in Cusco.
What to wear for the Machu Picchu weather
All year
- Layers: a T-shirt, a light fleece and a windproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip; the stone steps can be slippery
- A hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen: the sun is strong at this altitude, even on cloudy days
- Insect repellent and long trousers: small biting flies are common, especially in the warmer months
- A small daypack and a reusable water bottle
Extra for the rainy season
- A rain jacket or poncho (ponchos are also sold at the entrance)
- Quick-dry trousers and a spare pair of socks
- A waterproof cover or dry bag for your phone and camera
Extra for the dry season
- A warm layer for early morning, especially on the first bus up or the Inca Trail
See our complete Machu Picchu packing list.
Tips for any Machu Picchu weather
- Morning or afternoon? Morning mist often clears by 9 or 10 AM; in the rainy season, mornings are usually drier than afternoons.
- Keep your plans flexible: entrance tickets are for a fixed date and time, so go even if it is cloudy. The clouds often move and open the view.
- Check the forecast on SENAMHI, Peru’s national weather service, a few days before your visit.
Visit Machu Picchu with a local team
- Machu Picchu Full Day Tour by Train: a day trip from Cusco with guide and entrance.
- Machu Picchu 2 Day Tour by Train: a night in Aguas Calientes for an early visit.
- Inca Trail 4 Days (from USD 740): best from April to October.
For tickets, circuits and transport, read our guide on how to visit Machu Picchu.
FAQs about the Machu Picchu weather
What is the best month to visit Machu Picchu for weather?
May to September are the driest months. April and October are a good balance of fair weather and fewer crowds.
Does it get cold at Machu Picchu?
Not very. Early mornings can be around 6–10 °C in the dry season, but days are usually warm. Cusco is much colder.
Is Machu Picchu worth visiting in the rainy season?
Yes. Rain usually comes in showers, the landscape is green and there are fewer visitors. Bring a rain jacket and keep some time flexible.
Is Machu Picchu open when it rains?
Yes, it is open every day of the year, rain or shine. Only the Inca Trail closes, in February.
Why is Machu Picchu warmer than Cusco?
Because it is about 1,000 m lower and close to the Amazon cloud forest, which brings warm, humid air.
