You’ve made the decision! In 2026, you’re going to experience the wonder of Machu Picchu and the incredible culture of Peru. But now comes the most important question, the one that will define your entire experience: when should you go?
As experts in Peru travel, we know that the “best time” isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on whether you prefer clear skies, green landscapes, fewer crowds, or lower prices. This definitive guide will help you choose your ideal season, month by month.
Quick Answer: The Ideal Time
- For the Best Weather: The dry season (May to September) is your best bet. You’ll have sunny days, blue skies, and perfect conditions for trekking and photos.
- For the Best Balance (Weather & Crowds): The shoulder seasons (April, May, September, and October) are the sweet spot. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather with fewer tourists than in the high season.
Understanding the Two Seasons of the Peruvian Andes
In Cusco and Machu Picchu, we don’t talk about summer or winter, but rather two distinct seasons:
1. Dry Season (April to October) – “The High Season”
This is the most popular time to visit Peru, and for good reason.
- Pros:
- Excellent Weather: Consistently sunny and dry days, ideal for exploring ruins and hiking trails like the Inca Trail.
- Spectacular Views: Clear blue skies guarantee incredible photos of Machu Picchu.
- Vibrant Festivals: In June, Cusco celebrates Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, one of Peru’s most important festivities.
- Cons:
- Crowds: This is the busiest time for tourists. You’ll need to book flights, hotels, and tours many months in advance.
- Higher Prices: High demand increases costs for all tourist services.
- Cold Nights: Especially in June and July, nighttime temperatures in Cusco can drop to around 0°C (32°F).
2. Rainy Season (November to March) – “The Green Season”
Don’t let the name scare you. Traveling during this time has its own unique charms.
- Pros:
- Fewer Tourists: You’ll enjoy Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites with much more tranquility.
- Lush, Green Landscapes: The Andes are covered in a deep green, offering a unique and beautiful photographic perspective.
- Lower Prices: You’ll find better deals on flights, accommodation, and tours.
- Cons:
- Frequent Rain: Showers usually occur in the afternoon, but they can be intense and cause disruptions. Mornings are often clearer.
- Muddy Trails: Treks can be more challenging due to mud.
- Inca Trail Closure: Important! The classic Inca Trail is closed for maintenance throughout the entire month of February.
Month-by-Month Analysis for Your 2026 Peru Trip
- January – March: The heart of the rainy season. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind the rain and are looking for a more solitary experience. The landscape is spectacularly green. February is the least recommended month due to the Inca Trail closure.
- April: The beginning of the magic! The rains decrease dramatically, everything is still green, and the high-season crowds haven’t arrived yet. For many, this is the perfect month.
- May: A fantastic month. The weather is dry and sunny, and the landscapes retain the greenness of the rainy season. Crowds are smaller than in June or July.
- June: Perfect weather, but very crowded. This is the month of Inti Raymi (June 24th), so Cusco is in full celebration mode. Book everything as far in advance as possible.
- July – August: The peak of the tourist season due to holidays in North America and Europe. Guaranteed clear skies, but also the largest crowds and highest prices of the year.
- September: Another star month. The weather is still excellent, but the crowds begin to thin out considerably. Ideal for trekking.
- October: The end of the dry season. The weather is mostly good, though there might be an occasional shower. A great option for a good balance.
- November – December: The rainy season begins, but gradually. The rains are lighter and less frequent than in January or February. You’ll see the landscapes turn green again. Ideal for finding good deals before the end-of-year holidays.
What’s the Best Time Based on Your Interests?
- For Trekkers (Inca Trail/Salkantay): May to September. The dry terrain and clear skies make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
- For Photographers: April and May. You’ll capture Machu Picchu surrounded by green mountains under a blue sky.
- For Budget Travelers: November or January to March. You’ll save significantly on all aspects of your trip.
- For Culture Enthusiasts: June. The month of Inti Raymi in Cusco is an unparalleled cultural immersion.
Conclusion:
Choosing when to travel to Peru in 2026 is the first big step of your adventure. If you’re looking for the “classic” experience with the best possible weather, aim for the dry season (May-September). If you prefer a perfect balance of good weather, fewer people, and vibrant landscapes, then April, May, September, and October are your golden months.
No matter when you decide to come, Peru and Machu Picchu await you with an energy and beauty that will exceed all your expectations.
