All You Need to Know all about Machu Picchu Weather
When planning a trip to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous destinations in the world, the first question many travelers ask is: What’s the weather like there? Understanding Machu Picchu weather is essential to make your visit comfortable and unforgettable.
Located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, at about 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, Machu Picchu is a stunning Inca citadel surrounded by green peaks and drifting clouds. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts millions of visitors every year who come to admire its ancient architecture, panoramic views, and peaceful atmosphere.
However, many travelers don’t realize that Machu Picchu’s weather is very unpredictable. Because it sits between the high Andes and the edge of the Amazon rainforest, the site experiences a unique mix of climates. In a single day, you might see sunshine, mist, and even a quick rain shower. This constant change can make planning your visit a bit challenging—especially if you’re hoping for clear skies or plan to hike the nearby trails.
For that reason, it’s important to understand Machu Picchu’s seasons, rainfall patterns, and temperature changes before you go. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail, watching the sunrise over the ruins, or relaxing in Aguas Calientes, knowing what to expect from the weather will help you pack smart, stay comfortable, and enjoy every moment in this breathtaking corner of Peru.
It has a very unpredictable weather
Machu Picchu, the ancient city built by Inca people thousands of years ago, is situated on Andes Mountains some 8000 feet above the sea level. It is also very close to the equator. This is why Machu Picchu weather can be very unpredictable from rainy to chilly and sometimes very dry. You need to plan your trip keeping in mind rains and humidity to avoid stress and discomfort.
Machu Picchu’s climate does not follow the four traditional seasons. Instead, it is defined by two main periods:
- The Dry Season (May to October) – This is the most popular time to visit, offering clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and ideal hiking conditions. However, it’s also when the site sees the largest crowds.
- The Rainy Season (November to April) – Characterized by frequent showers and humid air, this season brings fewer tourists and greener, more vibrant scenery. Mornings are often misty, adding a magical atmosphere to the ruins.
Brace for short spells of rains
The region in which Machu Picchu is located is in the midst of rainforests but the high altitude of this wonderful structure keeps the climate milder for the tourists. If one talks about Machu Picchu weather averages, he finds that temperatures vary between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit all round the year. However, no matter when you visit Machu Picchu, you will find dense fog enveloping this marvelous structure on top of the mountains.
Do not go during the rainy season
If you want to avoid rains and humidity, keep in mind that the rainy season here begins in November and lasts till the month of April. January and February in particular are the two months when this region receives lots of rainfall. However, you cannot avoid a short spell of shower which is common all through the year in Machu Picchu. The best months to visit Machu Picchu are July and August. This is the dry season that lasts for 2 months from July till August. This is the peak season with hundreds of thousands of tourists arriving in this region of Peru. Days are dry while the nights are cool during these two months.
You would be surprised to know that many tourists come here during the rainy season only to avoid huge crowds comprised of tourists from all parts of the world. You can plan a trip to Machu Picchu during this rainy season if you can brave the weather and less than ideal weather is not a big problem for you.
