Visiting Machu Picchu is a unique experience at any time of the year. However, many travelers doubt whether Machupicchu is worth visiting in the rainy season. Does it rain all day? Do you miss the views? Is it a bad idea to travel between November and March? The short answer is: not necessarily. The key is to know what to expect and how to plan the trip.
In this article we tell you the advantages, disadvantages and real tips for visiting Machu Picchu in the rainy season, with practical information and without exaggeration.
When is the rainy season in Machupicchu?
In the article What is the best time to travel to Cusco and Machu Picchu? from our blog we find some tips for planning your vacation in Peru. However, you may still have doubts about traveling to Machu Picchu in the rainy season, so let’s delve into this time of year.
The rainy season in the Cusco region generally extends from November to March, although not all months have the same intensity. Climate records indicate that January and February concentrate the highest volume of rainfall, while November, December and March are usually transition months, with more moderate and spaced rainfall.
It is important to clarify a key point that often generates confusion: it does not rain constantly throughout the day. In most cases, rainfall is intermittent and short-lived, most likely during the afternoon or evening. The mornings, especially between 6:00 and 11:00, usually offer better weather conditions, with partly clear or cloudy skies, which allows you to visit Machu Picchu without major inconveniences.
Temperatures during the rainy season remain relatively stable. In Machu Picchu, average values range between 12 °C and 22 °C, with a temperate and humid climate. This combination favors the growth of vegetation, which explains why the environment is greener and leafier compared to the dry season.
A relevant fact to take into account is that February is the month with the highest amount of rainfall of the year. For this reason, the classic Inca Trail remains closed throughout the month, a preventive measure that is adopted annually to carry out maintenance tasks, conservation of the trail and guarantee the safety of visitors. This closure does not affect the entrance to Machu Picchu: the citadel remains open to tourism throughout the year, as does access by train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
Thanks to this continuous opening, February and the rainy months continue to be a valid option for those who wish to visit Machu Picchu, as long as the trip is well planned and there is updated information on schedules, circuits and weather conditions.
Advantages of visiting Machu Picchu in the rainy season
Traveling in the rainy season has benefits that many travelers do not consider:
Greener and more vivid landscapes.
The vegetation is at its best. The mountains surrounding Machu Picchu look intensely green, ideal for photography and for those looking for a more natural experience.
Fewer tourists.
As it is low season, there is less influx of visitors. This translates into quieter tours, fewer lines, and a more intimate feel when touring the citadel.
Increased availability of tickets and trains.
With less demand, it’s easier to get comfortable schedules and better combinations of services.
More affordable prices.
Hotels and some tourist services usually offer lower rates than in the dry season.
If you have doubts about the difficulty of the routes, we recommend you read the article Is climbing Machupicchu difficult? Key tips to enjoy the experience
Disadvantages and limitations to be aware of
Not everything is positive, and it is important to travel informed:
Possible rains during the visit.
Although it does not usually rain all day, there is a possibility of rain during the tour. A lightweight raincoat is usually enough.
Occasional fog.
At some times of the day, fog may appear that partially covers the landscape. Many times it dissipates in minutes, but it requires patience.
Greater logistical demands.
Schedules and planning become more important. Having local advice makes all the difference.
Key tips for traveling in the rainy season
Choose your entry time wisely.
The early hours of the morning usually offer better weather conditions and less chance of rain. We also recommend analyzing which is the best tourist ticket to enjoy your visit. In the article Tourist Ticket in Cusco: Everything you need to know you will find a detail of all the tours and their advantages.
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Trekking shoes with good grip, quick-drying clothing and a raincoat are essential. No extreme equipment is needed.
Travel flexibly.
The rainy season is ideal for those who can adapt and enjoy the trip without stress due to small changes.
Book with a local agency.
If you are considering traveling to Machu Picchu during the rainy season, doing so with a specialized local agency makes all the difference. Having flexible planning, prior advice and a team that knows the area allows you to enjoy the experience with peace of mind, even in months of variable weather.
At Inka Planet Adventure we offer the Machupicchu Tour by Observatory train, a comfortable and panoramic option that combines unique landscapes, professional organization and accompaniment at each stage of the trip. It is an ideal alternative for those looking to experience Machu Picchu without worries, making the most of every moment of the tour.
Who is it ideal for visiting Machu Picchu at this time?
The rainy season is a great option for flexible travelers, photographers, couples, and people who prioritize a quieter, less massive experience. Those who enjoy traveling without haste, with room to adapt to small time changes, tend to especially value this time of year. For photographers, the green landscapes, the presence of low clouds and the contrasts of light generate unique scenes that are different from the classic images of the dry season. Couples and travelers looking for a more intimate atmosphere find in these months a less crowded Machupicchu, with more relaxed tours and a feeling of greater connection with the natural environment.
On the other hand, the rainy season is not the most recommended alternative for those who have very tight itineraries, inflexible dates or a schedule that does not admit changes. Travelers who have a few days and need to comply with strict schedules may feel more conditioned by eventual rains or weather variations. It’s also not ideal for those who prefer a completely dry climate or are looking to ensure clear skies throughout the visit. In these cases, the dry season usually offers greater predictability, although with a significantly higher tourist influx.
