Best time to visit Machu Picchu
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
This legendary site has pretty much everything going for it. Not only is it steeped in history and has a mysterious feel to the place, it’s also a real adventure to get to.
Visiting Machu Picchu during your trip to Peru is a must, and we’d also recommend trying to go there when on a larger trip through South America.
In this guide we’ll explore the best time to visit Machu Picchu, which includes whether this city is worth visiting as well as how long we recommend spending here.
As well as looking at 3 of the very best things you can do in Lima, we’ll also answer your most burning questions in our FAQ section.
Best time to visit Machu Picchu?
The shoulder months of September, October, March and April are the very best for a visit to Machu Picchu. Not only are they less busy than the rest of the year (less frustration as crowds won’t always be getting in your way), they are also quite dry months too.
Is Machu Picchu worth visiting?
Quick answer: Yes! By far one of the most scenic ruins you can see in Peru, here you can enjoy both the unique architectural layout as well as the views of the infamous towering mountains that loom behind.
Although it’s touristy, there’s still a real Andean feel here, and especially so when getting here via the hidroeléctrica track or when hiking the Inca Trail.
It’s also a great way to brush up on your Inca knowledge too. Machu Picchu was built in the early 15th Century, which is actually quite close to our time considering Peruvian ruins can date as far back as 5000 years old.
What this means is that the Inca used this site for special ceremonial purposes, and gives us an insight into what they thought was their very best creation after years of developing various structural techniques.
Visiting Machu Picchu is also a great way to change things up for travelers who have spent a long time in the high-altitude city of Cusco while in Peru.
The climate here is much warmer, and also drops by a good 1000 meters in altitude too (after adjusting to Cusco this will be a piece of cake with your now-adjusted body).
What is the best month to visit Machu Picchu
We have spoken a lot about the best time to visit Peru but the very best months to visit Machu Picchu are September and October. There’s just 1.5-2.5 inches of rainfall each month, which is ideal for visiting the site and also heading on longer hikes to get here.
Average temperatures can be somewhat chilly in the morning and evening, but still feel quite warm during the day when exploring the site. I (George) was even sweating when walking around, so keep that in mind when deciding what to pack.
These months are also relatively cheap to visit Machu Picchu, and also Peru in general. Whilst not the least busy months of the year (you’d instead want March or April for that), you’ll still find great accommodation rates and flight prices.
Regardless, it’s still a good idea to book your Machu Picchu day tour in advance given tickets often sell out weeks before.
How long should I Spend in Machu Picchu?
From our experience, we recommend travelers to spend around 2/3 days in Machu Picchu (Aguascalientes). With this amount you’ll be able to see both the ruins as well as the lesser-visited mirador of Huayna Picchu.
Given you’ll be staying in Aguascalientes, this will also be enough time to visit the hot springs and also head on some more peaceful hiking routes along the river.
See our how many days in Machu Picchu guide to learn more on how to spend your time.
Got travel insurance for Machu Picchu?
Top Things to do in Machu Picchu
Let’s now explore 3 of the very best things you can see and do when exploring Machu Picchu.
Head on the Inca Trail Tour
This is by far the ultimate way to experience Machu Picchu, where you’ll first spend several days hiking through the remote Andean mountains.
Whilst you could head along the usual route to get to Aguascalientes, here you’ll be able to visit many other lesser-known ruins such as Intipunku and Runkurakay which are hidden away.
You’ll also get to relive this classic route which the Inca used, passing by both thick jungle and snowy mountains.
Of course staying safe during the hike is really important, given you’ll be in the wilderness for a few days and will need proper equipment.
That’s why we recommend heading with this Inca Trail tour, which includes all food and equipment you’ll need during the 4 day hike.
It’s a highly reputable tour too, meaning not only will you be in safe hands, you’ll also have a knowledgeable local guide show and teach you some really interesting things along the way.
Explore the Very Best Gems of Aguascalientes
Much less of a destination for travelers to explore, Aguascalientes gets virtually all of its tourism from incoming travelers staying the night before heading to Machu Picchu.
However, having explored around, we think it’s really worthwhile getting to know this small town and its other highlights on your day off. The Plaza de Armas is a cool place to hang out, where you can see its many Inca Statues and also grab a bite at the surrounding cozy restaurants.
Another awesome thing to do is to head to the Baños Termales (Hot Springs), which are located at the top of the town. These naturally heated waters can reach temperatures of between 35-45°C, and are perfect for relaxing tired muscles after long treks.
The Mariposario is a must for nature lovers, where you can see all kinds of colorful butterflies that are looked after in the sanctuary. It’s only a 1 km walk from town, where you can also enjoy the forested paths along the way.
Visit Both of the Miradores
The majority of travelers heading to Machu Picchu only visit the main archaeological site, which to be fair is still incredible and unforgettable.
However if you didn’t know, there’s actually an alternative mirador higher up which gives some pretty solid views of the ancient citadel. Known as Huayna Picchu, it’s just over two hundred meters higher up than Machu Picchu, offering a fresh perspective (as well as better views over the surrounding jungle and mountains).
To get to the top you’ll need to climb over 750 stone steps, which are commonly referred to as “the Stairs of Death”. It’s not actually that bad, and those who are fit can be up to the top within 45-60 minutes.
Although altitude sickness probably won’t be an issue (especially if you’ve just come from Cusco), you’ll still want to take breaks and drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself well-hydrated.
It’s also important to know that there’s a daily limit of 400 travelers who can head up this mirador, so you’ll want to make sure you have it booked in advance. You can book your Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu combo ticket here to guarantee your place.
Machu Picchu FAQ’s
Best time to visit Machu Picchu
And that’s all for this guide on the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
These fascinating ruins are usually on top of most travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason too.
Aside from the picturesque views, here you can also better understand the Inca culture and what they aimed to do during their rule, as well as see a few friendly alpacas wandering around.
In this guide we’ve covered the best time to visit Machu Picchu, as well as our own personal recommendations for you to get the most out of a trip here. At the end we’ve also answered your most burning questions in our FAQ section.
Be sure to read our Machu Picchu Safety Guide so you can keep yourself safe whilst enjoying this unforgettable site.
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