Best Time to Visit Cusco: When to go and what to pack?

If you’re planning a trip to the capital of the Inca Empire, it’s essential to know the best time to visit Cusco to make the most of its culture, landscapes, and archaeological sites. Cusco has a unique and varied climate due to its altitude and location in the Andes, meaning each season offers a different experience. In this guide, we’ll break down when to visit Cusco and what to bring based on the season.

1. Cusco’s Climate

Cusco’s weather changes throughout the year, with two main seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the rainy season (November to April). Daytime temperatures can be pleasant, but at night, temperatures drop significantly, especially in the rainy season. However, don’t let your guard down—if the sky is completely cloudy with no sign of the sun, rain is highly likely.

2. Climate in Cusco’s Most Popular Destinations

• Machu Picchu: The climate in Machu Picchu is milder due to its lower altitude, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C. However, rain is unpredictable and can surprise you at any time of the year.
• Rainbow Mountain: The temperature here is much colder, dropping below 0°C at dawn. As the day progresses, the sun appears, but strong winds keep the cold sensation constant.
• Sacred Valley: Similar to Cusco but slightly warmer. Days can be sunny or cloudy, with unexpected weather changes.
• Humantay Lagoon: The temperature is cold, similar to Rainbow Mountain, though not as extreme. Mornings and nights are chilly, but daytime temperatures are more stable.
• Choquequirao: Located at a lower altitude, Choquequirao has a warmer climate, though rainfall is frequent during the wet season.
• Ausangate: At a high altitude, temperatures are very cold—even on sunny days—due to the icy winds from the Ausangate glacier.
• Salkantay: The weather is more pleasant in some sections, but in others, it’s as cold as Ausangate.

3. The Best Month to Visit Cusco

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Cusco, June is ideal. This month coincides with Inti Raymi, Cusco’s biggest festival, and the dry season ensures minimal rainfall, perfect for exploring the city. July and August are also excellent options due to stable weather conditions.

4. Dry and Rainy Seasons in Cusco

Cusco is divided into two main seasons:

Dry Season (May – October)

• The best time to visit Cusco, with clear skies and low chances of rain. However, nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C.

Rainy Season (November – April)

• Frequent rains can make hikes to Machu Picchu or the mountains more challenging. On the plus side, the landscapes are greener and more vibrant.

5. Does It Snow in Cusco?

Yes, it is possible for snow to fall in Cusco, but it is a rare occurrence in the city itself. Cusco sits at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, and while temperatures can drop significantly during June and July, snowfall rarely settles in the city. What is more common are frosts and temperatures close to 0°C (32°F) during early mornings.

However, in higher-altitude destinations, the likelihood of snowfall increases. Places like Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Ausangate, and the Salkantay Pass may experience snow, especially during the coldest months (June, July, and August).

Where Is Snow Most Likely to Fall in Cusco?

Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca – 5,200 m (17,060 ft): During the Andean winter, Vinicunca can be covered in a thin layer of snow, giving it a completely different appearance from what visitors usually expect. However, if there is too much snow, the mountain’s colors may be hidden, though the landscape remains breathtaking.

Ausangate Mountain – 6,384 m (20,945 ft): As Cusco’s highest peak, Ausangate is one of the few places where snow is almost permanent at its highest elevations. If you dare to explore Ausangate Trek, you are very likely to encounter snow or at least icy trails along the route.

Salkantay Pass – 4,600 m (15,090 ft): On the highest point of the Salkantay Trek, it is possible to find snow during certain times of the year. This trek, which is an alternative to the Inca Trail, crosses high-altitude zones where the weather changes constantly.

Lares and Other Trekking Routes – Routes like Lares, which traverse mountain passes above 4,500 meters (14,760 feet), may also experience occasional snowfall. However, the snow usually melts quickly in the lower sections of the trek.

6. What to Do in Each Season

If you’ve already planned your trip to Cusco, the navel of the world, don’t worry. We’ve prepared a list of activities you can enjoy during both the dry and rainy seasons.

 7. What to Pack for Each Season

Being well-prepared is key to making the most of your trip to Cusco. Here’s what you should bring depending on the season:

8. The Most Popular Festive Months in Cusco

If you want to experience Cusco’s culture at its liveliest, plan your trip around these festivals:

1. February – March: Carnivals
2. April: Holy Week
3. June: Inti Raymi (June 24), Corpus Christi
4. July: Peruvian Independence Day Celebrations
5. December: Andean Christmas, Santurantikuy Fair

Final Recommendations

• If traveling during peak season (June – August), book in advance.
• In the rainy season, check the weather forecast before any tour.
• To avoid altitude sickness, rest on the first day and drink coca tea.
• If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid festive dates and long weekends.

No matter when you decide to visit, Cusco always has something special to offer. Now that you know the best time to visit Cusco, it’s time to pack your bags and enjoy this magical city!

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What to See in Cusco: A Day in The Heart of The Inca Empire
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