Visiting Machu Picchu will definitely become one of the greatest experiences of your life. This archaeological site in the Peruvian Andes is a true gem of the Inca Empire that has attracted people from all around the world.
In order to make this a perfect trip, you need to make sure you choose the right time of the year to visit Machu Picchu and plan every detail ahead of time.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU?
Although Machu Picchu is a great destination to visit all year long, there are some months during the year when the weather is better, and tourism is a bit lower. If you want clear blue skies and breathtaking views, our best advice would be to visit during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, there tends to be less rain and more sunny days, allowing better views and greater hiking routes like the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
June, July, and August are the most visited months as they are part of the peak season for tourism. If you want to visit during these months, we would recommend you make your reservations months in advance. Make sure you have flights, transportation, and hotels figured out ahead of time.
November through March tend to have less tourism; however, there’s also a higher risk of rain. Nonetheless, if you visit during this season, you’ll enjoy having fewer crowds and the beautiful green scenery, even though the weather is a bit more unpredictable. Keep in mind that the rain can make access a bit harder and make some of the hikes more slippery, so make sure you take a raincoat and an extra change of clothes to anticipate sudden weather changes. April and October are known as transition months. With less rain and fewer tourists, these two months are perfect if you want a vacation with great weather and fewer crowds.
TIPS TO PLAN YOUR PERFECT TRIP TO MACHU PICCHU
- Get your entrance tickets in advance. Machu Picchu has a limited number of visitors every day, and the entrance tickets might sell out pretty fast, especially if you’re interested in going to the Inca Trail. We recommend you make your reservations three months in advance if you’re visiting during peak season.
- Choose the right transportation. Most tourists get to Machu Picchu from Cusco. You can take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and then take a bus or walk to the Ciudadela. If you like hiking, you can also consider alternative routes like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trail. If you want this experience, you must get a tour guide and spend a night camping. Don’t forget to stay at Hotel Midori
GETTING USED TO THE ALTITUDE
Cusco is 11,154 feet above sea level, which is why we recommend that any tourist spend at least two days there before going all the way up to Machu Picchu in order to avoid altitude sickness. This is something you must keep in mind, regardless of when you choose to visit this incredible destination.
Remember to pack comfortable clothing, a good pair of shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and a rain jacket, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
HIRE A TOUR GUIDE
If you want to truly learn about the history and culture of this place, we highly recommend you get a tour guide. Some routes, like Huayna Picchu, require a previous reservation and a separate fee for the park.
If you follow these tips and choose the right time to travel, we are sure that your experience in Machu Picchu will be as magical and wonderful as the place itself. Learn about the history, the culture, and the nature of Machu Picchu, and have an incredible vacation with Royal Holiday Club.