To begin with, just a brief remark about Cusco and Peru: it is a safe region, it is a safe country. The warning of the United States Department of State doesn’t make it clear enough that they are concerned about the Peruvian frontier with Colombia. Which is very far from the Cusco region and all touristic zones in Peru. Things are peaceful and quiet down here. You can visit anytime.
Having said this, this post is about choosing the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu. I should say your best time of the year instead, because the ancient Inca hilltop citadel is amazing any month of the year. The only thing everyone has to know is the traveling year in Cusco is divided in two parts: dry and rainy season. Next we will give all the info, so visitors can arrive here knowing exactly how it is going to be.
Machu Picchu Visit In Dry Season
It goes roughly from late March to late November, when, as the name says, there is dryness, no rain at all (maybe a very light one in early April, now that climate is changing, but no more). So weather in the Machu Picchu area is ideal: warm, sunny, wide blue skies, cotton clouds, clean mountain air. This is the best time for many. Actually, the Inca king Pachacutec asked for a vacation resort in that valley, which became Machu Picchu; he was looking for a place for temporary stays, because Cusco City’s climate tends to be cold throughout the year. The Urubamba Valley, where the citadel is located, stands on the western border of the Amazonian jungle, with lush vegetation, woods, typical fauna, spectacular views.
On the other hand, in dry season prices tend to be higher, because undoubtedly there are more visitors. But indeed, the Cusco region and Machu Picchu are quite affordable, unless of course you want to have a VIP stay and meet some celebrities.
Aguas Calientes Village: also called Machu Picchu station, is a lovely place at the base of the citadel. Everybody has to stay there on a Machu Picchu visit. It is a tropical setting, full of trees, green mountains, shining sun, nice weather, a river flowing and whispering soothingly. Moreover, there are many enjoyable things visitors can do there, because they have bars, restaurants, discos, spas, handicraft markets, everything. Including museums and scientific institutes. And let’s not forget the famous thermal baths! Finally, people can just sit at the Main Square and have the best time enjoying the priceless view of the Urubamba Valley, for free.
Machu Picchu Visit In Rainy Season
In helping to find your best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu, this season goes from late November until late March. There are heavy rainfalls, but they are mostly short, twice a week mainly. If you are in Cusco City, there is no problem, just have an umbrella, rainproof coat or wait inside any store for a while.
Now if you’re in the Machu Picchu area, also could wait for the rain to end. It is advisable to bring rainproof footwear, an impermeable jacket or coat and covers for the electronic devices. Finally, some people find the rain actually adds to the fun and adventure of the tour. But don’t be disappointed, eventually the sky will open and the Sun will shine.
On the brighter side, in the entire Cusco region prices get lower, good discounts can be found everywhere, from plane tickets and lodging to shopping. Same applies to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. Also, it is summer in the Southern hemisphere, so the climate is hotter, for those who look to escape cold weather at least once a year.
So, the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu depends on the combination you prefer: dry season with higher prices or rainy season with lower prices. But there is always adventure, enjoyment, learning and great memories.
Talk to our travel professionals here at TOUR IN PERU, book the best time to visit and roam the dominions of Inca emperors and royals, also a mystical, energetic place for them all, that is, the splendid Machu Picchu citadel!
