Machu Picchu sits at approximately 2,430 meters above sea level. This altitude creates a subtropical highland climate with mild days and cooler nights all year. Temperatures stay fairly constant, but rainfall makes the biggest difference between seasons. The site receives visitors every month, though conditions change a lot from dry periods to wet ones.
Travelers reach Machu Picchu by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, followed by a short bus ride. Machu Picchu by World provides private transportation owned by the agency for the full journey, including hotel pickup in Cusco. Highly trained drivers handle the routes, and expert guides lead groups in multiple languages with years of experience on these paths.
Daytime temperatures average 20°C to 22°C throughout the year. Nights drop to 8°C to 12°C. Sudden changes happen often – sun one hour, clouds the next.
| Month | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) | Approx. Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21 | 11 | 138 | 18 | Peak wet season, lush vegetation |
| February | 21 | 11 | 141 | 18 | Heaviest rain, Inca Trail closed |
| March | 21 | 11 | 130 | 16 | Rain decreases toward end of month |
| April | 22 | 10 | 60 | 10 | Shoulder month, good balance |
| May | 21 | 9 | 25 | 5 | Start of dry season, clear skies |
| June | 20 | 8 | 17 | 3 | Driest month, cool nights |
| July | 20 | 8 | 22 | 3 | Very dry, high visitor numbers |
| August | 21 | 9 | 24 | 4 | Sunny days, excellent visibility |
| September | 21 | 10 | 40 | 7 | Dry continues, pleasant conditions |
| October | 22 | 11 | 75 | 10 | Shoulder month, occasional showers |
| November | 22 | 11 | 100 | 13 | Wet season starts, greener views |
| December | 21 | 11 | 120 | 16 | Increasing rain, festive period |
Data comes from long-term records; actual days can vary.
Most travelers choose May to September for reliable dry weather and open paths. June and July offer the lowest chance of rain.
April, October, and early November work well for fewer people while still getting many dry days. The site feels calmer, and the landscape stays green from recent rains.
Altitude affects everyone differently. Spend 2 or 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley first to adjust.
Tickets for Machu Picchu sell out fast in dry season. Buy them months ahead.
Trains run daily except during rare heavy weather. Buses from Aguas Calientes to the entrance operate from 5:30 a.m.
Morning visits (first slots from 6:00 a.m.) often have mist that clears later. Afternoon slots can bring rain in wet season.
Lunch options inside the site are limited. Many people eat in Aguas Calientes town. Tours with Machu Picchu by World can include meals made from natural, local organic ingredients. International dishes are available at some stops (check with the reservations team for any extra costs).
Machu Picchu stays open every day of the year. Weather changes the experience but never cancels the impact of these Inca constructions. Contact Machu Picchu by World for private tours that match your preferred dates and group size.
