I know I’ve previously shared my opinion on the best month to visit Machu Picchu, but I recognize I cheated a bit by covering the advantages of visiting Machu Picchu pretty much any time of the year. So, here’s a much more specific follow-up post with expert opinion on the best time to visit Machu Picchu from Cusco locals and tour guides. You can see how hard it was to get them to stick to just one single month. 😅
“I’ve been working as an official tour guide in the city of Cusco for the last 5 years, and I’ve seen that the best time to visit Machu Picchu is June. It’s the busiest month for Machu Picchu tours for a reason! The weather is impeccable – clear skies mean amazing, unobstructed photos. There’s also something to say about the buzz of having tons of visitors from around the world.”
– Jacob
“For me, the best month to visit Machu Picchu is June. Despite it being right in the middle of the busiest tourist season when Machu Picchu receives the most visitors, the climate there isn’t just majestic; it’s idyllic, and the views are spectacular. There’s no season better than this one for taking photos. What’s more, you can also take advantage of certain days in June that coincide with Cusco’s annual festivals like Inti Raymi for an even more awe-inspiring experience.”
– Isaias
“August for the peacefulness and pockets of silence that allow you to thoroughly enjoy the view. But it really depends on what kind of tourist you are. If you love interacting with the local culture and with others, June would be your best bet.”
– Mirko
“The best months to visit the Machu Picchu Citadel are June, July, or August. June is the month of Inti Raymi Sun Festival (video below) and the Andean New Year that coincides with the Southern Hemisphere’s winter solstice. July is the month of Fiestas Patrias and the Peruvian Independence Day celebrations. And, August is the month of the pachamama (Mother Earth) when you can fully experience the customs and traditions of the region.”
– Luiggi
