Best Times to Travel to Cusco

Traveling to Cusco, Peru can be an incredible experience at any time of the year, but there are important considerations depending on your preferences and what you want to do. Here’s a summary of the seasons and when might be the best times to visit:

Dry Season (May to October):
- June to August: This is considered high season, especially in July and August. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, with warm days and cold nights. It’s ideal for visiting Machu Picchu and other attractions without worrying too much about rain.
- May and September to October: These months are still dry and less crowded than July and August. You can enjoy good weather and fewer crowds, although you may encounter some occasional rain, especially in October.
Rainy Season (November to April):
- November and April: These months are transitional periods between the dry and rainy seasons. While there may be some rain, the crowds are smaller and the landscapes are lush and beautiful.
- December to March: These months constitute the rainy season in Cusco. Daily rain can be expected, especially in January and February. However, this time of year has its charms, such as fewer tourists, lower prices, and vivid landscapes.

Additional Considerations:

If you plan to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, note that it is closed for maintenance in February.
Local festivals, such as Inti Raymi in June, can provide enriching cultural experiences but also attract crowds.

In summary, the best time to travel to Cusco depends on your personal preferences: if you prefer dry weather and more tourists, choose June to August. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the possibility of some rain, consider visiting during transitional months or even during the rainy season for lower prices and more vibrant landscapes.