Planning guide
Machu Picchu month by month
There is no single best month to visit Machu Picchu, only the trade you prefer. The dry season, roughly May to September, brings the clearest, most reliable weather and the biggest crowds; the wet season, roughly November to March, brings green landscapes, thin crowds, and rain. The shoulders, May and September in particular, sit in the sweet spot of good weather with more breathing room.
Two calendar facts outrank the weather for planners: the classic Inca Trail has traditionally closed each February for maintenance, and the scarce pieces, permits and the best entry slots, sell out furthest ahead for the peak months. Pick the month that fits the trade you want, then read its guide for the specifics.
Every month, at a glance
Machu Picchu in January
Deep wet season: greenest and quietest, Inca Trail closes in February
Machu Picchu in February
The classic Inca Trail closure month; citadel open, treks by other routes
Machu Picchu in March
Wet season easing; the classic trail reopens
Machu Picchu in April
Green shoulder, drying out, with Semana Santa
Machu Picchu in May
Dry season arriving while the valleys are still green
Machu Picchu in June
Peak dry season: clear, cold mornings, Inti Raymi
Machu Picchu in July
Peak crowds and Fiestas Patrias; book furthest ahead
Machu Picchu in August
July's weather twin, with a late-month crowd taper
Machu Picchu in September
Smart shoulder: peak weather, thinner crowds, real slack
Machu Picchu in October
Green shoulder as the rain returns; moderate crowds
Machu Picchu in November
Early wet season: warm, green, and quiet
Machu Picchu in December
Wet season with the Christmas and New Year spike
Once you have picked a month
- Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
The season-by-season overview behind the month pages, in one table.
- Custom Peru Trip Planner
A feasibility read on your month, party, and pace. No email required.