The Ideal Time To Hike The Inca Trail And Visit Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking places on the planet!
It’s great that tourism is regulated at Machu Picchu, with limits on the number of visitors, ensuring the preservation of its beauty.
However, choosing the right time to visit is still crucial! There are a few factors you should consider, like the weather and the potential crowds
So if you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu on your next adventure, here’s my advice on the best time to visit.
Best Time To Hike the Inca Trail
In my opinion, the all-round best time to hike the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu is between May and October.
However, each season offers something unique, so there’s truly no bad time to visit—except for February, when the trail is closed for maintenance!
If you’re skipping the hike, and just visiting Machu Picchu, then February should be quiet, but I would urge you to complete the hike, if you can—It’s one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had.
It’s worth highlighting that only 500 permits are available each day for the Inca Trail, so book well in advance.
Hiking the Inca Trail in Winter (June to August)
Peru’s dry season runs from June to August, making this the ideal time to visit Machu Picchu. You’ll enjoy clear blue skies with minimal rain or fog to obstruct the views.
While the days are warm and the nights cool, the dry season also brings large crowds. The Inca Trail is limited to 500 permits per day, but Machu Picchu allows up to 2,500 visitors.
If you’re planning to hike the trail in winter, be sure to book your permits well in advance, as they can sell out up to a year before.
Hiking the Inca Trail in Spring (September to November)
Spring is another excellent time to hike the Inca Trail. The weather remains dry, the temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds start to thin out.
You might also find better deals on tours during this period, making it an ideal time for those looking for a quieter experience.
Hiking the Inca Trail in Summer (December to February)
From December to February, Machu Picchu experiences its rainy season. Although the temperatures remain warm, the weather can be unpredictable, with fog and sudden downpours becoming more frequent.
Fewer people tend to attempt the Inca Trail at this time due to the rain, and while it’s still possible, the trail can be muddy, and there’s a risk of flash floods and landslides.
It does have its benefits, like cooler temperatures for more comfortable hiking, and potentially fog to add to the already breathtaking landscape.
Remember, the trail is completely closed for maintenance during February!
Hiking the Inca Trail in Autumn (March to May)
As the rainy season draws to a close, autumn is another fantastic time to hike the Inca Trail. The skies start to clear, and the busy tourist season hasn’t yet arrived.
One of the highlights of hiking in autumn is the vibrant landscape. The mountains come alive with greenery, and you’ll spot many flowers and orchids blooming along the trail.
Helpful Tips
Book your tickets as early as possible. Everything about Machu Picchu tends to sell out fast!
Keep in mind key dates, like holidays, when more families make their way to Machu Picchu. For these dates, you should book everything even further in advance.
If you find that trains from Cusco are fully booked, don’t worry—try to secure a train ticket departing from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. It’s well worth spending a night there, as Ollantaytambo is a charming town in itself, just an hour’s drive from Cusco.
