A common question we here at Chimu Adventures is often “When is the best time to trek the Inca trail to Machu Picchu?”.

In short, We really dont believe there is a “best” time. Sure May through to September is “peak season”. This is technically the dry season, with very little rain and clear blue skies. Sure, you wont get wet! – but at this time of year the trail does become very crowded. This is also due to the fact that Europeans and North Americans have their summer vacations in July and August, and hence add to the crowd on the trail!. In peak seaon the Inca trail does fill up to 6 months in advance, due to the permit regulations (currently 500 people per day). So early booking is required.

The shoulder season (April and September/October) is a good time to visit. There are less people on the trek, and if trekking in April after the “wet season” finishes in March then you will see the mountains at their magestic and vibrant best. The Inca trail is stunning this time of year. The Rich lush cloud forest comes to life, and Machu Picchu has its mistique with periodic cloud cover.. A must for photographers! You still need to book 4 months or so in advance for this period.

Lastly is the “Wet” Season. From November through to March (not always exact!) the wet season brings the quieter months to the trail. In the month of February, the Inca trail is closed for annual clean up, and we reccomend the alternative treks such as the Lares trek.

However, the traditional quiet season is well worth it. Less people on the trail, and vibrant flora and fauna (this is when they are at their most active in the cloud forest). The lush green is also pleasing to the eye, and well worth the chance of getting wet! The rainy season generally means afternoon tropical showers, short sharp bursts. With global warming, the weather is becoming a bit more unpredictible, and the wet season can in fact be drier than expected, with weeks of no rain. Do not discount travelling to Peru, or trekking the Inca trail at any time!. Permits for this time of year do fill up around 2 months in advance.

Whenever travelling to Peru, especially in the Andes always pack for all conditions. Weather can change rapidly, and in the evening the temprature on the Inca trail can drop below zero degrees celcius. Average daytime tempratures in Cusco are low 20s’ most of the year. Visi Chimu Adventures for the best value trips to Peru, and dont forget to email us if you have any questions on when to travel and what to see!