🇵🇪 Cusco · When to go
The best time to visit Cusco
Cusco (the base for Machu Picchu) has a dry season (May–September) and a wet season (November–March). The dry season is the best — clear skies and reliable trails, peaking June–August. The wet season is green and quiet but rainier, and the Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance.
Best overall
May–September — the dry season, with clear skies and reliable trails (peak Jun–Aug).
Best weather
The dry season, May–September.
Fewer crowds
The wet/green season (November–March), outside the holidays.
Lowest prices
The wet season (November–March) is cheapest.
When to avoid
February (the Inca Trail is closed and rain peaks); also note the high altitude any time of year.
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Cusco season by season
Sunny days, cold nights and clear skies — the best and busiest time for Machu Picchu and trekking (book far ahead).
The transitions — greener and quieter than peak, with a mix of clear spells and showers; good value.
Green and lush with frequent afternoon rain (heaviest Jan–Feb); cheapest and quietest, but the Inca Trail closes in February.
Key events & holidays
Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun, 24 June, Cusco’s biggest), the dry-season trekking peak, and the February Inca Trail closure.
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Plan my Cusco trip — freeBest time to visit Cusco — FAQs
When is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?
May to September — the dry season has clear skies and reliable trails, peaking June to August (and busiest then).
Is the Inca Trail open year-round?
No — it closes every February for maintenance (and the wet season makes it muddy); book permits months ahead for the dry season.
What is the wet season like in Cusco?
November–March is green and quiet with frequent afternoon showers, heaviest in January–February; mornings are often clear.
Do I need to worry about altitude in Cusco?
Yes, year-round — Cusco sits around 3,400m, so allow a day or two to acclimatise before trekking or visiting Machu Picchu.
Weather, prices and event dates vary year to year — always check current forecasts and schedules before you book. Some links are affiliate links; Wavvia may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.