Machu Picchu Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Machu Picchu.

Climate overview of Machu Picchu

The best time to travel to Machu Picchu is from June to September. It is winter which means it can be pretty cool in the mountains, however it are the most dry months and you will have the biggest chance to take photos with sun and beautiful blue skies. Due to the high altitude the temperature is much lower than at other places on earth on the same latitude. At night the temperature can drop below freezing, so wearing good and warm clothing is recommended.

Machu Picchu Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Machu Picchu - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Machu Picchu

In Machu Picchu temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 16°C (61°F) in November to a moderate 15°C (59°F) in the coolest month, July.

Nights vary from 8°C (46°F) in November to around 3°C (37°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1989 mm (78 in) of precipitation annually. The climate in Machu Picchu shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in February, the wettest month, with an average of 288 mm (11 in) of precipitation over 22 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month July offers drier and sunnier days, with around 54 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall over 2 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Machu Picchu Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Machu Picchu

For those who appreciate different seasons, Machu Picchu serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 8.6 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in February, offering only 4.1 hours of daily sunlight.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Cusco, Peru (73 KM, 45 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Cusco, Peru (73 KM, 45 Miles).

Humidity in Machu Picchu by Month

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

The most favourable weather available in Machu Picchu usually occurs in May, June, July and August. Conditions are generally most challenging in January, February, March, November and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: May, June, July and August
  • Warmest weather: all year round
  • Most sunshine: July
  • Fewest rainy days: June, July and August
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from November to March

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Machu Picchu

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

May, June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Machu Picchu. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Machu Picchu has a distinct rainy season from November to March.

What temperatures can I expect in Machu Picchu?

Daytime highs range from 15°C (59°F) in July to 16°C (61°F) in November. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 8°C (46°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Machu Picchu get?

Annual rainfall is around 1989 mm (78 in). February is the wettest month with 288 mm (11 in), while July is the driest with 54 mm (2.1 in).

How sunny is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu receives around 2,340 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 257 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 122 hours. Overall, Machu Picchu enjoys abundant sunshine.

Machu Picchu 3-Day Forecast

Machu Picchu on the map

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