Machu Picchu without rain or during the dry season. What is it like?
Can you imagine walking among ancient ruins under a clear sky and without a single drop of rain? The dry season hides one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu, but not everyone knows it. In this blog, I’ll tell you why this time may surprise you and what you should keep in mind if you’re planning a visit.
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Dry Season: When to Go and What to Expect
When is the dry season in Machu Picchu?
Take note! The dry season runs from April to September , with fairly stable weather conditions and little to no rain. This makes it easy to enjoy unobstructed views of Machu Picchu, without interruptions or setbacks caused by the weather.
And what about the rainy season? The rainy season in Machu Picchu runs from November to March, when it can rain all day long. Therefore, it’s important to be well prepared by always carrying appropriate clothing, such as raincoats and ponchos.
What is the weather like in Machu Picchu during the dry season?
| Month | Average temperature | Rains | Darling |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 12°C to 23°C | Occasional rain | Partly clear |
| May | 11°C to 22°C | Very few | Mostly clear |
| June | 10°C to 22°C | Almost zero | Clear |
| July | 9°C to 21°C | Almost zero | Clear |
| August | 10°C to 22°C | Very scarce | Mostly clear |
| September | 11°C to 23°C | Some light rain | Partly clear |
Does it rain during the dry season in Machu Picchu?
How interesting! To begin with, you should know that the Machu Picchu citadel is located at the edge of the Cusco jungle, so there’s a small chance of rain. However, these rains are very rare and occur infrequently, so you shouldn’t worry about that detail.
On the other hand, if you visit during the rainy season, the rains are usually constant and can last for days. Therefore, it’s important to plan your trip to Machu Picchu carefully with regard to your entry time to the citadel. It’s recommended to enter after 11 a.m., when the fog begins to clear, allowing you to enjoy clear views of the citadel.
Is it cold in Machu Picchu in July or August?
To begin with, you should know that it does get cold during these months, especially at night and in the early morning. This season is known in the Cusco region as the frost season. What does this mean? You’ll experience cold mornings and nights, but also intense sunshine for much of the day.
Traveler, if you’re visiting Machu Picchu during this time of year, it’s very important to bring appropriate clothing for both cold and hot weather, as well as items that protect you in both weather conditions. You don’t want to get burned, do you?
Tickets and reservations in the dry season
Do tickets to Machu Picchu sell out during the dry season?
Of course. You should keep in mind that during the dry season, demand for admission tickets increases considerably. Also, during this time, many European countries have vacation months, which means tickets sell out very quickly.
When visiting Machu Picchu, and certainly when visiting other places, the months with the highest number of visitors are called high season. High season typically coincides with the best weather. This is true for Machu Picchu, which is why the dry season is often also referred to as high season. However, they differ in some ways. The important thing to know is that activities for visiting Machu Picchu can be done during both seasons, although they are not necessarily the same.
How far in advance should I buy tickets to Machu Picchu?
Take note! If you plan to travel during the dry season, it’s important to book at least 3 to 5 months in advance. If you’re having trouble booking, you can leave this task to a travel agency, who will not only help you with the reservation, but also with all the necessary logistics for your trip to Machu Picchu.
What type of ticket is best for me during the dry season?
Traveler, first of all, you should know that during this period all routes are ideal, with long stretches around the citadel, as well as panoramic and adventure tours. You should choose based on what you’re looking for on your trip to Machu Picchu.
Take note! You should know that there are 10 types of entrance to Machu Picchu, but routes 1C, 1D, 3C, and 3D are only available during peak season, which runs from October to June, so be careful!
Trip Preparation: Clothing, Equipment, and Tips
Is it sunny in Machu Picchu during the dry season?
During the dry season in Machu Picchu, the sun is intense and almost always present during the day. This makes the temperature feel high when you’re in direct sunlight, even though the weather can be cool or cold in the early morning and at dusk.
Despite the strong sun, the air is generally drier and more pleasant, with low humidity, which helps make the heat less overwhelming than in humid climates. Therefore, taking advantage of the sunny hours is ideal for enjoying your visit, but always be careful to avoid fatigue from prolonged exposure.
What clothes to wear to Machu Picchu during the dry season?
Traveler, first, keep in mind that you should only bring what you need. As travelers, our goal is always to travel light to fully enjoy our trips, without worrying about the weight of our backpack.
You can opt for lightweight clothing, such as long-sleeved polo shirts, hiking pants, a hat, and a light jacket; that should suffice. Remember that the goal is to travel light, but you should also consider that the heat can be intense, as the days are usually very sunny.
Now, traveler, something you shouldn’t forget is to always carry sunscreen, which will be a great help in protecting you from the sun’s strong rays. Don’t forget it! You don’t want to get burned, do you?
What shoes are recommended for Machu Picchu?
Travelers, it’s extremely important to have shoes or sneakers that have the necessary technology to support you with every step, as well as protection to prevent injuries during your trek. Trekking shoes are a good option.
Take note! It’s very important to avoid wearing urban or formal shoes. Why? First, because in the citadel, you’ll be climbing and descending stone stairs, which can cause slips and falls if you don’t have good soles. Furthermore, these types of shoes can cause chafing that can lead to injuries, especially if you plan to explore adventure routes like Huayna Picchu . In that case, you’ll have a terrible time without the right footwear.
Is it necessary to bring repellent or sunscreen?
These are some of the essential items to pack in your backpack if you travel to Machu Picchu. Why? Because this tourist destination is located in the jungle at the edge of Cusco, where the climate is hot and humid, making the presence of mosquitoes inevitable.
Also, don’t forget that sunny days are common during the dry season, so it’s essential to bring sunscreen to protect yourself. You can buy these products in Cusco, and if you forget, you’ll also find them in the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village) and at the entrance to Machu Picchu.
Frequently asked questions about Machu Picchu in the dry season
What is the best time to visit Machu?
It’s best to travel during the dry season, as weather conditions are more stable, making your trip easier and avoiding interruptions caused by rain.
Can you enter Machu Picchu without a guide?
Yes, it’s possible to enter without a guide, but keep in mind that Machu Picchu is full of stories and mysteries in every street and temple that you won’t want to miss. Therefore, it’s recommended to have a tour guide who can provide you with all this information.
How long does the visit to Machu Picchu last?
The duration depends on the type of tour you choose. If you only visit the citadel, the approximate time is 3 hours. If you choose routes that include visits to the mountains, the Inca Bridge, the Temple of the Moon, or Inti Punku, the visit can extend between 4 and 6 hours.
What are the entry times during the dry season?
During the dry season, some routes are available from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm, while others, such as Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain, only allow entry in the morning.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain this season?
Yes, of course. This season, you can enjoy these routes without the risks of rain, and upon reaching the summit, you’ll have an incredible view of the citadel, unobstructed by fog.
Are there bathrooms inside Machu Picchu?
Take note! You won’t find any restrooms inside Machu Picchu, but to avoid any inconvenience, you can use the restrooms near the entrance checkpoint. We recommend using them before entering.
Where can you sleep near Machu Picchu?
Travelers, most tourists spend the night in the town of Aguas Calientes, which is the closest to Machu Picchu. There you’ll find hostels, hotels, and accommodations ranging from 2 to 5 stars, depending on the level of comfort you’re looking for.
Can I go with children to Machu Picchu during the dry season?
Of course. Keep in mind that the Machu Picchu citadel has several fairly accessible and relatively easy trails, making them ideal for children to fully enjoy the trip.
Can you pay by card in the area?
As a traveler, you’ll find establishments that accept card payments, but there will also be many that don’t. Therefore, if you want to purchase something, it’s important to always carry cash, preferably in soles.
Is it advisable to go with a tour or on your own?
If you’re a traveler who already knows the area and everything you need well, you could choose to do it on your own. But if it’s your first time, it’s important to know that there will be many details to consider, such as tickets, buses, trains, and guides, all of which must be booked months in advance. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to hire a travel agency to take care of everything.