The official rainy season is November to April, but rain can occur any time of the year, and overcast weather is common, particularly in the mornings. Despite planning, the weather will largely come down to luck. For the perfect Instagram shot, consider buying two entrance tickets for morning and afternoon or for multiple days. However, rain or shine, Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, and a bit of rain or clouds can add to its charm.
The busiest season for visits is May to October (not the rainy season), especially during the summer months of the US and Europe (particularly July). However, it’s difficult to find a day without crowds, so plan your trip when it works for you and be prepared for crowds and waits.
New regulations require entrance tickets to be purchased with a specific hour of entrance, from 6 am to 2 pm, valid for a 4-hour visit. Contrary to popular belief, arriving early is not always better. Midday or early afternoon is generally less crowded than early mornings, and there are long lines for buses to Machu Picchu early in the morning (5-7 am) and for returning from Machu Picchu at the end of the day (5-6 pm).
Weekday crowds are similar, but weekends, especially Sundays, tend to be busier as locals from the Cusco province can enter for free and often do so on weekends.
There are two additional treks/climbs available with your entrance ticket: Huayna Picchu peak and Machu Picchu Mountain. Both require good fitness and a lack of fear of heights. We don’t recommend Huayna Picchu peak due to safety concerns, especially if it’s rainy or wet (which you won’t know in advance). Machu Picchu peak is recommended only if you have strong knees, as it’s almost entirely stairs. There are also free trek options, such as the walk to the Sun Gate (around one hour each way), offering fantastic views without needing to be booked as part of your entrance ticket.
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