Know the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu

Know the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu

If you have already decided to travel to the Inca citadel for the first time, but still do not know what is the best time to visit Machu Picchu, here are some tips for you to choose the season that suits you best.

Belonging to the Cusco Region, Machu Picchu is located in the middle of the Amazon basin and the Andes Mountains. Due to its location, the citadel annually goes through 2 very outstanding seasons, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Low rainy season

Is this a good time to visit Machu Picchu? Between April and November, Machu Picchu, the Old Mountain (from its Quechua translation) enjoys a sunny climate with little rainfall, which allows visitors to hike the mountain trails to the citadel without the inconvenience and enjoy a beautiful view at more than 2,400 meters above sea level. In addition, at this time of the year, most of the celebrations in Cusco take place, such as the Inti Raymi.

On the other hand, as this is the high season in Machu Picchu, you should make reservations for hotels, train tickets, and entrance to the citadel at least 3 months in advance. In case you want to live the unforgettable experience of walking the Inca Trail, you should book your entrance at least 6 months in advance.

Something also important to consider is that in this season, and with the passing of the months, the number of mosquitoes in the region increases, therefore, the use of insect repellent is always recommended.

Rainy Season

From December to April is also a good time to visit Machu Picchu. Here the amount and intensity of rainfall in the area increases and with this the number of tourists who venture to visit the Inca citadel decreases. However, the weather conditions are not always adverse and you can enjoy some sunny days, the greenest landscape that the Inca Citadel can offer you during the year, and meals with exotic fruits and vegetables typical of the season.

Another benefit of this season is a large number of offers and discounts on travel services that are not available in the high season.

One aspect that is necessary to take into account is that in April the Inca Trail, one of the great attractions on the way to Machu Picchu, is closed for maintenance.

Whether you want to enjoy the sunny days of the dry season or more convenient prices in the rainy season, Machu Picchu is the perfect destination to learn more about the Inca Culture.