Inca Trail Weather Forecast

Weather on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

What’s the Best Month to Hike the Inca Trail?

The most pleasant times to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, with the best weather conditions, are in April, May, September, and October. During these months, there are fewer tourists, and the weather is typically comfortable with minimal rainfall. Many trekkers choose the 4-Day Inca Trail or Short Inca Trail routes during these periods to make the most of the clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

However, many visitors prefer to schedule their Inca Trail Trekking around other attractions in Cusco. June is the best month for this, as it marks the anniversary of the imperial city. There’s always something happening, including the spectacular re-enactment of the Inca festival Inti Raymi. Keep in mind that the city becomes busier during this period, so booking hotels, restaurants, and Inca Trail Tours in advance is essential.

Continue reading to learn about the dry and rainy seasons for each month along the Inca Trail Peru Trek and plan your visit to Machu Picchu Inca Trail accordingly.

Rainy Season on the Inca Trail: What to Expect

During the rainy season, the weather on the Inca Trail Hike can be unpredictable, and it’s always wise to be prepared for sudden showers. If you’re trekking during this time of year, packing rain gear is essential. However, there may also be days with little to no rain.

The wettest months are January and February, with February being particularly significant as the Inca Trail closes for maintenance and due to heavy rainfall. If you’re considering Hiking the Inca Trail at another time, March and April are often more manageable with fewer showers.

What to Expect During the Rainy Season Month by Month:

• November
  November marks the end of the dry season in Cusco. You’ll notice the dry fields along the Inca Trail, with little vegetation due to the drought. The later you travel in November, the more rain you’ll encounter. The temperatures during this month are generally pleasant, with an average of 66°F during the day and 41°F at night.
• December
  December marks the start of summer across Peru, and many domestic tourists are on vacation. The trail remains warm (66°F during the day and 45°F at night), but rain is frequent. It’s a good month to visit if you’re looking to avoid large crowds, but make sure to pack rain gear for your Inca Trail Package.
• January
  Rain is more frequent in January, with most days experiencing some precipitation. The sun is often hidden behind clouds, but you may still feel its warmth occasionally. Temperatures reach 64°F during the day and 45°F at night, making it a mixed experience for those attempting the Cusco Inca Trail.
• February
  As mentioned earlier, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed in February due to heavy rainfall and maintenance work. The rain is intense, making the trail slippery and dangerous. While you can’t hike the Inca Trail, other routes remain open. Daytime temperatures are around 64°F, and nighttime temperatures drop to 46°F.
• March
  The rain continues into March, but there are more sunny breaks. Hikers begin returning to the Inca Trail, and the air feels fresher. It’s still a good idea to bring rain gear. Temperatures average 66°F during the day and 46°F at night.
• April
  The end of the rainy season is in sight! While there may still be light showers, you’ll feel more sunshine. Daytime temperatures are around 66°F, with nights cooling down to 45°F, offering a pleasant environment for Inca Trail Tours.

What to Expect During the Dry Season on the Inca Trail

The dry season offers sunny days and breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes, making it an ideal time for Inca Trail Trekking. However, it also attracts more visitors, and tickets for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu sell out months in advance. As mentioned, planning ahead is crucial. If you book about four months in advance, you’ll secure spots on the trail and in your preferred hotels. If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu as part of your Inca Trail Package, you MUST reserve early.

Here’s a breakdown of the dry season by month:

May

The rainy season is over, and the dry season has begun. While an occasional shower isn’t out of the question, it won’t disrupt your Inca Trail Hike. May has some of the most pleasant weather of the year, with daytime temperatures around 66°F and colder nights at 39°F. It’s a great time to visit before the peak tourist season hits, whether you’re doing the 4-Day Inca Trail or the Short Inca Trail.

June

June is the driest month of the year, with little to no rain. However, winter has arrived, making the nights colder on the Machu Picchu Inca Trail. Daytime temperatures remain mild at 66°F, but at night, they can drop to 34°F. June is also one of the busiest months in Cusco, so expect plenty of visitors at Machu Picchu and along the Cusco Inca Trail. Be sure to plan your Inca Trail Tours well in advance.

July

Just when you thought it couldn’t get colder at night, July arrives. Nighttime temperatures can drop as low as 32°F, but you’ll still enjoy daytime warmth of around 66°F. This is the coldest month of the year, so be sure to pack warm clothing and a quality sleeping bag. Sunscreen is also recommended, as the sun can still be intense while Hiking the Inca Trail.

August

Winter is coming to an end, but it’s still cold at night, with temperatures around 37°F. Daytime temperatures remain at 66°F, and the skies are getting sunnier, with occasional rain. August is popular with visitors, and you’ll enjoy stunning views under clear skies along the Inca Trail Peru Trek.

September

September is a beautiful time of year to embark on your Inca Trail Trekking adventure. Temperatures are warmer, and there’s minimal rain. Overall, you’ll feel comfortable during the day, with no issues taking a shower. The tourist numbers start to drop, making it a great time to visit the Machu Picchu Inca Trail. Expect temperatures of 66°F during the day and 41°F at night.

October

Another favorite month for Inca Trail Hike enthusiasts. October is one of the warmest months, with fewer crowds at Machu Picchu, allowing for great views and blue skies. Light showers are possible, but they won’t affect your trip. Temperatures reach 66°F during the day and 43°F at night, making it a perfect time to enjoy an Inca Trail Package.

Here is a comparative table about maximum and minimum temperature, rainfall, atmospheric pressure, and relative humidity for each month of the year for the Inca Trail:

This table outlines the typical climate data, giving an overview of weather conditions throughout the year, with changes in temperature, rainfall, and humidity depending on the month.

Let me know if you need any adjustments or further details!

What is the Average Temperature on the Inca Trail?

As you can see, the temperature on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu doesn’t vary much throughout the year. During the day, you can expect temperatures around 66 °F, and at night, around 40 °F. Of course, this will depend on the part of the trail you are on. The earlier camps are colder, and you will be at a higher altitude before descending to the warmer sections of the jungle, which are part of the Short Inca Trail.

What is the Coldest Month on the Inca Trail?

The coldest month of the year on the Inca Trail Trekking is definitely July. At night, temperatures can drop to 32 °F, but you will still experience daytime warmth around 66 °F. June closely follows, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 34 °F. If you are traveling during these months, make sure to bring warm clothing and a sleeping bag that can handle colder climates, especially if you are opting for the 4-Day Inca Trail.

Does the Weather on the Inca Trail Affect Flights?

The weather on the Inca Trail Peru Trek is very similar to that of Cusco. Therefore, when there is heavy rain on the trail, it is likely that there will be heavy rain in the city where the airport is located. Occasionally, the precipitation can be so intense that a flight might be delayed or even canceled. But don’t worry, as airlines will help you with another flight, or you might just need to wait for the rain to pass.

What to Pack for the Inca Trail?

You can consult our detailed packing list for the Inca Trail Tours and get a thorough description of each item and some recommendations. But if you want a brief overview, here is the list:

• Clothing: Lightweight layers that you can easily put on as temperatures change.
• Rain jacket or poncho.
• A warm jacket and sweater.
• Hand towel.
• Well-worn hiking boots or shoes.
• Athletic shoes.
• Pajamas.
• Hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen.
• Warm hat, scarf, and gloves for cold nights and mountains.
• Insect repellent.
• Sandals.
• Toiletries.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Backpack to carry your belongings.
• High-quality camera or a phone with a good camera.
• Personal medications.
• Guidebook/map.
• Passport.
• Backpack lock.
• Flashlight.
• Portable chargers (if needed).

Plan Your Trip Now!

We hope that by using our detailed weather guide for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail, you have a clearer idea of when it’s best to travel or which time of year suits your preferences. Of course, it will depend on rainfall, whether you want to avoid or be with the crowds, and other factors. Most tourists arrive in Peru between May and October, but you can travel any month. Just remember that the Inca Trail is closed in February.

If you decide to visit during the rainy season, we guarantee an incredible experience. But remember to pack rain gear and good hiking boots to stay comfortable during the trek. When you decide to join us on the Cusco Inca Trail, we’ll be ready to welcome you with open arms and take you on a fascinating adventure of a lifetime.

Average Temperature on the Inca Trail

As you can see, the temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year. During the day, you can expect an average temperature of 66°F, while at night it drops to around 40°F. However, this can vary depending on the part of the trail you’re on. The first campsites are colder due to the higher altitude, while you’ll experience warmer conditions as you descend into the jungle sections.

What is the Coldest Month on the Inca Trail?

The coldest month of the year on the Inca Trail is undoubtedly July. Night temperatures can drop as low as 32°F, but daytime warmth can still reach around 66°F. June closely follows, with nighttime temperatures dipping to 34°F. If you’re traveling during these months, make sure to pack warm clothing and a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather.

Does the Weather on the Inca Trail Affect Flights?

The weather on the Inca Trail is similar to that of Cusco. Heavy rains on the trail often mean similar conditions in the city where the airport is located. Occasionally, rainstorms can cause flight delays or cancellations. However, don’t worry—airlines will help you book another flight, or you might just need to wait for the rain to pass.

What to Pack for the Inca Trail?

You can check our detailed packing list for the Inca Trail for a thorough breakdown of each item and recommendations. Here’s a quick overview:

• Clothing: thin layers that can be added or removed depending on temperature changes.
• Rain gear or a poncho.
• A warm jacket and sweater.
• Hand towel.
• Well-worn hiking boots or shoes.
• Sneakers.
• Pajamas.
• Hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen.
• Warm hat, scarf, and gloves for cold nights and high-altitude areas.
• Insect repellent.
• Sandals.
• Toiletries.
• Reusable water bottle.
• A backpack for your personal belongings.
• High-quality camera or phone with a good camera.
• Personal medication.
• Guidebook/map.
• Passport.
• Lock for your backpack.
• Flashlight.
• Portable chargers (if needed).

Plan Your Trip Now!

We hope this detailed weather guide for the Inca Trail helps you decide the best time to visit based on your preferences. Whether you’re aiming to avoid the rain or the crowds, the timing is up to you. Most tourists visit between May and October, but you can come any time of year—just remember the Inca Trail is closed in February.

If you choose to visit during the rainy season, we guarantee an incredible experience. Just make sure to bring rain gear and good hiking boots for comfort.

When you decide to join us on the Inca Trail, we’ll be ready to welcome you and guide you on an unforgettable adventure!