It’s important to know about Machu Picchu’s climate so that you can make an informed decision about what clothes to pack and wear for your Peru trip. The Machu Picchu archeological site is found in a subtropical zone, sitting between the mountains of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, protected by the snow-covered mountain called Salkantay to the south. This geography means that the climate of Machu Picchu is uniquely fresh-yet-warm and varied with sunny and rainy days, depending on the month you decide to travel to Peru, which lends to enormous biodiversity and one of the richest ecosystems on the planet.
Rainy Season: The Weather in Machu Picchu from November to March
Similarly to where I live in Huancayo, Peru, you’ll see the most rain in the Andes mountains of Peru from around November to March. Of that timeframe, the rainiest month is typically February. That’s why the Inca Trail is closed in February. The good thing is that it usually rains more in the afternoons, but the truth is that it can rain at any time of day.
Even so, the days are generally “warmer” with temperatures ranging from 19ºC to 21ºC. Most notably, walking around at night won’t be as cold as it can get in the dry season. Another advantage is that all the rain means that the Inca citadel is cloaked in green, which makes for a more vibrant and lush visual experience at Machu Picchu.
Dry Season: The Weather in Machu Picchu from April to October
During the Dry Season months, there’s nearly no rain at Machu Picchu the majority of the time, especially during the months that coincide with summertime in North America (June, July, and August). Days are generally warm (17ºC to 19ºC), but the evenings are super cold with some nights hitting below zero in June and July.
Many tourists consider this season the best time to visit Machu Picchu, which is why these are the same months that Machu Picchu welcomes the largest number of visitors.
- What is the weather like in Machu Picchu?
Typical Machu Picchu weather is humid with warm air and rain depending on whether you're visiting during Dry Season or Wet (or Rainy) Season – the only 2 seasons of the year. Temperatures range from 12ºC to 24ºC (usually hovering around the middle range since you'd be visiting Machu Picchu during the day), and weather can be unpredictable because of the high altitude. The bad news is that rain can show up at anytime really. The good news is that rain and fog can also disappear relatively quickly if you wait it out.
- What is the climate of Machu Picchu?
Situated in a tropical cloud forest between the Andes mountain range and the Amazon rainforest, Machu Picchu has a relatively mild and damp climate with the average year-round daytime temperature ranging from 17ºC to 21ºC.
- What clothes should I bring for Machu Picchu Weather in Rainy Season?
If your Peru trip is planning during the Rainy Season months, make sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho. An umbrella would also be a good option. You also want to make sure you're using shoes that allow you to walk safely on wet and slippery surfaces. Finally, we recommend packing insect repellent as there can be mosquitos during these months.
- What clothes should I bring for Machu Picchu Weather in Dry Season?
If you're thinking about visiting Peru in the Dry Season, it's important that you pack items for protection from the sun, including a hat, sunblock, and sunglasses. Also, pack your water bottle, so you don't get dehydrated in the burning Andean sun. Nights (and that also means early mornings) are very cold, so you'll also need layers and a good jacket.
