The Inca Trail Weather

What’s the Best Month to Go to the Inca Trail?

The best time to enjoy the Inca Trail in Cusco and experience the best weather is April and May or September and October. During these months, the weather is especially pleasant, with little rainfall. Additionally, it’s the low season and there are fewer tourists.

However, many tourists like to plan their excursions based on other attractions in Cusco, and June is the prime month for that due to the city's anniversary celebrations. You'll always find something to do, including the incredible reenactment of the Inca Festival Inti Raymi.

Remember that the city is bustling during its festivals, and booking hotels, restaurants, and tours in advance is necessary. Continue reading to discover each month's dry and rainy seasons along the Inca Trail, and plan your visit to Machu Picchu, Peru, accordingly.

The Inca Trail Rainy Season: What to Expect?

During the rainy season, the weather on the Inca Trail can become quite unpredictable. It's always advisable to be prepared for sudden rain showers, even if the day starts out sunny. If you're planning to travel during this time of year, make sure to bring waterproof clothing or a good rain poncho in your backpack. That said, it’s also possible to enjoy one or two days without any rainfall.

January and February are generally the rainiest months. In fact, the Inca Trail closes during the month of February due to heavy rains and maintenance work carried out along the route. Still, rain can occur in any month and at any time.

Below, we’ll tell you what to expect month by month during the rainy season:

• Inca Trail in November

  November marks the end of the dry season in Cusco. Along the trail, you'll notice arid fields with little vegetation due to the lack of rain. Toward the end of the month, some light showers may begin to appear.

  The weather on the Inca Trail during this month is generally pleasant, and you’ll feel comfortable for most of the journey. The average temperature is 66 °F (19 °C) during the day and 41 °F (5 °C) at night.

• Inca Trail in December

  This month marks the beginning of summer across the country, and most domestic tourists go on vacation. The overall temperature along the trail remains warm (66 °F / 19 °C during the day and 45 °F / 7 °C at night), but you will experience some rain, so be sure to bring waterproof gear. December is a good month to travel if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy the landscape without too many cloudy skies.

• Inca Trail in January

  Rain becomes more frequent on most days. The sun often hides behind the clouds, but occasionally breaks through to provide some warmth. Still, you’ll experience a few sunny spells throughout the day, with average temperatures around 64 °F (18 °C) during the day and 45 °F (7 °C) at night.

• Inca Trail in February

  As we've mentioned before, the Inca Trail is closed in February. Heavy rains occur, and the wet ground could lead to accidents and slips. You won't be able to secure a spot on the trail this month, but other alternative routes to Machu Picchu are open if you're in Cusco. However, the weather remains mild, around 64 °F (18 °C) during the day and 46 °F (8 °C) at night.

• Inca Trail in March

  Downpours are still consistent through March, but there’ll be more breaks in the cloud, and the sun shows his face more often. Visitors start to hike the Inca Trail again, and the ground will be drier. Don’t leave your rain gear behind, though. Expect temperatures of 66 °F (19 °C) during the day and 46 °F (8 °C) at night.

• Inca Trail in April

  Finally! The time has almost come to say goodbye to the heavy rains for a few months. In April, the Inca Trail becomes much greener, and you’ll enjoy more frequent sunshine. However, you may still experience occasional light showers on some days. The weather feels warm and pleasant, with temperatures around 66 °F (19 °C) during the day and 45 °F (7 °C) at night.

The Inca Trail Dry Season: What to Expect?

The dry season on the Inca Trail is associated with magnificent sunny days and the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes. However, it also means the arrival of numerous visitors to Peru who want to make the most of the excellent weather. Inca Trail permits are sold out many months in advance during this time of year.

Preparation is essential when traveling during the dry season, as everything gets booked well in advance. If you book about 4-6 months ahead, you'll ensure getting spots on the trek and in your preferred accommodations. If you wish to hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain upon reaching the citadel, you MUST book well in advance. Below, we provide a more detailed description of each month during the dry season on the Inca Trail:

• Inca Trail in May

  That’s all, folks. The rainy season is behind us, and the dry season has begun. While a brief shower may still occur, it won’t affect your hike. Rainfall has decreased significantly, and May is known for having some of the most pleasant weather of the year. It’s a lovely time to visit the city before the large crowds start arriving in Machu Picchu over the coming months. You’ll experience temperatures around 66 °F (19 °C) during the day, and nights start to get cold at about 39 °F (4 °C).

• Inca Trail in June

  June is known as the driest time of the year, and rain is unlikely during your trek. However, winter has already begun, and nights on the Inca Trail can get quite cold. During the day, the weather remains mild at around 66 °F (19 °C), but at night, temperatures can drop to 34 °F (1 °C). Also, keep in mind that June is one of the busiest months in Cusco, so expect to see many visitors at Machu Picchu.

• Inca Trail in July

  Just when you thought nights couldn’t get any colder, July arrives. This month, temperatures on the Inca Trail can drop to 32 °F (0 °C) at night, though during the day, you'll feel warm again with temperatures around 66 °F (19 °C). It’s the coldest season of the year, so be sure to pack warm clothing and a good sleeping bag. If you prefer, you can also rent one from us. We also recommend using sunscreen regularly, as the skies are clear and the sun’s rays are very strong.

• Inca Trail in August

  Winter is about to end, but it’s still quite cold at night. Temperatures can drop to 37 °F (3 °C) at night and reach 66 °F (19 °C) during the day. The days are getting sunnier, although occasional showers may still occur. August is a busy month with many visitors, and you’ll enjoy stunning views with clear skies along the Inca Trail.

• Inca Trail in September

  This is a lovely time of year to hike the Inca Trail. Temperatures tend to be warmer, and there’s very little rain. Overall, the weather feels pleasant. Tourism also drops during this season, making September one of the best months to visit Machu Picchu. You’ll experience temperatures of 66 °F (19 °C) during the day and 41 °F (5 °C) at night.

• Inca Trail in October

  Another one of our favorite months. It’s one of the warmest, and you’ll avoid large crowds at Machu Picchu while enjoying fantastic views. Expect blue skies and perhaps the odd light shower now and again. During the day, the temperature will be around 66 °F (19 °C), and at night it will drop to 43 °F (6 °C).

What Is the Average Temperature of the Inca Trail?

As you can see, the temperature doesn’t change much throughout the year. During the day, you’ll most likely experience temperature of 66 °F (19 °C) during the day and around 40 °F (4 °C) at night. Of course, it depends on what part of the trail you’re on. The first campsites are colder, and you’ll be at a higher altitude before making your way down to the warmer jungle sections of the trail.

What Is the Coldest Month on the Inca Trail?

The coldest month of the year on the Inca Trail is undoubtedly July. At night, temperatures can drop to 32 °F (0 °C), but you'll still feel warmth during the day, reaching up to 66 °F (19 °C). June follows closely, with nighttime temperatures falling to 34 °F (1 °C).

If you're traveling during this month, make sure to bring warm clothing and a sleeping bag suitable for colder climates.

Does the Weather on the Inca Trail Affect Flights?

The weather on the Inca Trail is very similar to that in Cusco. So, when heavy showers are on the trek, they likely are also in the city where the airport is. Occasionally the downpours are so heavy that a flight might be delayed or canceled.

But you don’t need to worry as the airlines will always put you on another flight as soon as possible. We recommend that you stay informed about the weather conditions and any flight updates through the official airline channels before your trip. Remember that, although the weather can affect flights to Cusco, there are measures and solutions in place to ensure your Inca Trail hike is safe and successful.

What to Pack When Visiting the Inca Trail?

You can check out our detailed Inca Trail packing list for a detailed description of each item and some recommendations. But if you want a quick look, check out this brief list:

• Clothing - thin layers that you can take off and put on as the temperature changes.
• Raincoat or waterproof poncho.
• A warm jacket and sweater.
• Hand towel.
• Hiking boots or shoes - well worn-in.
• Sneakers or comfortable shoes.
• Warm pajamas.
• Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen factor 50+.
• Insect repellent.
• Sandals.
• Toiletries.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Daypack to carry all your things around in.
• High-quality camera or phone with a good camera.
• Personal medication.
• Guide book/map.
• Passport.
• Lock for bags.
• Flashlight.
• Adaptors for plugs (if needed).

Book Your Trip Now!

Hopefully, by using our detailed Inca Trail weather guide, you can better understand what to expect and when you’d like to travel. Of course, it will also depend on factors such as the rain, whether you prefer to avoid the crowds or, on the contrary, enjoy the lively atmosphere with more people.

Most travelers come to Peru between May and October, but you can come any month. Just remember that the Inca Trail is closed in February.

If you decide to join us on this epic route in the rainy season, you’ll still have an excellent time. But remember to pack a rain jacket and good hiking boots for greater comfort during the trek.

Whenever you want to join us on the Inca Trail, we’ll be ready and waiting with open arms to take you on the adventure of a lifetime!