Weather in the Andes is generally hard to predict because its mountainous geography spans tall peaks, low valleys, and highland plateaus. This creates many altitudinal zones, each with a different climate and temperature characteristics. Machu Picchu resides in a tropical cloud forest between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Basin.
Best Time to Go to Machu Picchu
Considerations: What’s Your Preference?
- For the most sunshine, the best time to visit the Inca citadel is during the dry season from April to October.
- For warmer temperatures (with light to heavy rains), visit from November to March.
- For less crowds and probability pleasant weather, visit Machu Picchu during shoulder season months between the peak dry season and months with the most rainfall (April, May, September and October).
Weather Forecast
Average temperatures by month in Machu Picchu:
The Peruvian geographer Javier Pulgar Vidal proposed dividing Peru’s regions into 8 altitudinal zones based on elevation, climate, and plant and animal life.
The 8 zones are as follows:
- Chala (Coast)
- Yunga
- Quechua
- Suni
- Puna
- Janca or Cordillera
- Rupa Rupa or high forest
- Omagua or low forest
In particular, Machu Picchu straddles two zones, the Yunga and the wet Puna.
Once you determine an ideal time to visit, see our Peru Machu Picchu Guide for more information on climate. Also check the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for seasonal information to help you plan your trip.