There is no doubt that planning a trip to Machu Picchu will be an unforgettable journey. This magical place has features that make it the favorite for all types of tourists. Do you like millennial history and culture? In Machu Picchu you will know plenty of anecdotes related to this administrative, cultural and political Inca Empire, from old customs to how people lived at that time.
Are you a nature lover? Here, the fabulous scenery on your way to the Historical Sanctuary will fulfill this expectation. Machu Picchu is not only living history, it is also a great example of how ancient civilizations lived in harmony with the environment, making it part of their home. Do you like outdoor sports? There are also alternatives for you to release the accumulated energy.
But now the question arises: what is the best time to visit Machu Picchu? The answer would be during the dry season. Don’t worry, below we will give you all the necessary guidelines for you to schedule a successful trip to the southern region of Cusco!
The first thing to emphasize is that, unlike the four seasons we regularly know, in Cusco there are two: the dry season, which runs from April to September, and the rainy season, which takes place between October and March.
As it is well known, Cusco has an extreme climate. An intense drizzle could ruin the plans you meticulously organized. That is why the best time to visit Machu Picchu goes from the fourth to the ninth month of the year.
However, during the dry season there are rainy days, but the chances of prolonged rains or that they can ruin some walks are tiny. The months with the least probability of rain are May, June and July, which also coincide with the peak season. So go for your calendar and start separating the dates that best suit your days off so that your holiday will be unforgettable.
You can also read: What to visit in Cusco?
It is true that all those tourists who travel to Cusco have to make a necessary stop in Machu Picchu. But what’s around here? Lots of history and adventure. One of the most carried out activities among the attractions that connect you to the Historical Sanctuary is to take the Qhapaq Ñan route, also known as the Inca Trail.
This activity is ideal for lovers of outdoor sports such as hiking. You don’t need to be an expert in order to take it. Although, it is advisable to be in optimal conditions because, in addition to the long walks (which last between 2 to 4 days, depending on how experienced you are in trekking practice), you have to deal with the Cusco altitude (approximately, 3399 meters above the sea level).
Just like going to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail has an ideal season, which is during the months of April and October. Nevertheless, unlike the Historical Sanctuary, there is a month in which you cannot enter the Qhapaq Ñan, even if you want to. In February, the Inca Trail is closed because it is dangerous to take this route with the constant and heavy rains.
If you want to stay connected with the ancient history of Cusco, there is an archaeological center on the way to Machu Picchu. This is his ‘sacred sister’, Choquequirao, which was one of the last cities inhabited by the Incas. This city full of history, listed as Cultural Heritage of the Nation, is located in the hills near the Salkantay Glacier, another favorite destination for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts.
You can also read: What to visit near Cusco?
To enjoy even more the Inca citadel, in any of the two seasons, we recommend you to bring the following:
Now you know what are the best months to travel to Machu Picchu. It does not matter if you are traveling alone, with your family, your partner or friends, we are sure that you will have an unforgettable experience here. We hope this information has been useful to you!
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