The short answer: May and September are the absolute best months to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu.
These ideal shoulder season months deliver clear blue skies, dry hiking trails, mild temperatures, and significantly smaller crowd sizes than the peak summer months of June, July, and August.
Here is a quick breakdown of the Peruvian Andean calendar:
- Shoulder Seasons (April to May & September to October): The premier window for travel. Excellent weather, vibrant green landscapes, moderate trail traffic, and better availability for train seats and Machu Picchu entry passes.
- Peak Dry Season (June to August): Crisp, sunny days with cold nights. Trails and ancient citadels operate at peak capacity, requiring hotel, train, and trek bookings 4 to 6 months in advance.
- Wet Season (November to March): Warmer daytime temperatures with regular afternoon rainfall. Landscapes are lush and green, crowds are minimal, and flight or hotel prices are at their lowest point of the year.
Cusco & Machu Picchu Climate Overview
Understanding the Andean climate is key to planning your journey. Because Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, temperatures remain relatively stable year round, while rainfall dictates the primary seasonal shifts.
Seasonal & Monthly Climate Breakdown
Compare temperatures, rainfall expectations, and crowd levels across seasons and individual months.
| Season / Month | Period | Daytime Temp (°C / °F) | Nighttime Temp (°C / °F) | Rainfall Expectation | Crowd Levels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OVERVIEW BY SEASON | |||||
|
Early Shoulder
Emerald Landscapes
|
April – May | 19°C / 66°F | 2°C / 36°F | Low to Moderate | Moderate |
|
Peak Dry
Crisp & Clear Skies
|
June – August | 19°C / 66°F | -2°C / 28°F | Very Low | High (Peak Season) |
|
Late Shoulder
Warm Days & Quiet Trails
|
September – October | 20°C / 68°F | 4°C / 39°F | Moderate | Moderate |
|
Wet Season
Lush & Uncrowded
|
November – March | 18°C / 64°F | 6°C / 43°F | High Rainfall |
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We are an experienced tour operator that has received numerous excellent reviews on many travel sites like TripAdvisor. Find below some of the feedback given by our previous clients end judge for yourself. 
Aracely c 4 contributions The best agency It was my best experience with Apple travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly. Written January 10, 2024 
Davide 2 contributions Incredible service and experience in Inca trail Incredible service and experience in Inca trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch Thanks Ivanoe,my guide. Written October 21, 2022 
Smileybpk 9 contributions 2 day trek to Machu Picchu was so amazing, I only wish I booked the 4 day trek The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable. And if the trek wasn't beautiful enough, Machu Picchu was breathtaking. Thank you to the guides and porters for being so attentive. Written October 19, 2022
Edward A 1 contribution The best trip on Cusco !! It was a great experiencie with all the team Apple Travel, I have enjoyed my whole trip, Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation on Cusco !I hope to return once again to Cusco and enjoy an unforgettable experience Written October 11, 2022 Permits Our Permits and Certifications
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