The weather in the Andes is generally difficult to predict because its mountainous geography encompasses high peaks, low valleys and high plateaus. This creates many altitudinal zones, each with different climatic and temperature characteristics. Machu Picchu is located in a tropical cloud forest between the Andes mountain range and the Amazon basin.
Weather forecast
For the most sunshine, the best time to visit the Inca citadel is during the dry season, from April to October.
For warmer temperatures (with light to heavy rainfall), visit from November to March.
For fewer crowds and more pleasant weather, visit Machu Picchu during the off-season months, between the dry season and the rainiest months (April, May, September, and October).
Average temperatures by month in Machu Picchu:
| Weather Machu Picchu (Average) | Jan | Feb | Mar | April | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Max Temperature °C | 26 | 28 | 27 | 25 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 24 | 26 |
| Max Temperature °F | 79 | 82 | 81 | 77 | 70 | 68 | 66 | 68 | 70 | 72 | 75 | 79 |
| Min Temperature °C | 17 | 18 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 16 |
| Min Temperature °F | 63 | 64 | 61 | 59 | 55 | 52 | 50 | 54 | 54 | 54 | 55 | 61 |
| # Rainy Days | 21 | 17 | 11 | 8 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 7 | 8 | 12 | 18 |
Peruvian geographer Javier Pulgar Vidal proposed dividing the regions of Peru into 8 altitudinal zones based on elevation, climate, and plant and animal life.
Chala (Coast)
Yungas
Quechua
Suni
Puna
Janca or Cordillera
Rupa Rupa or high jungle
Omagua or low jungle
In particular, Machu Picchu is located between two zones, the Yungas and the humid Puna.
Once you determine the ideal time to visit, check out our Machu Picchu Guide in Peru for more information on the weather. Also check out the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu for seasonal information to help you plan your trip.
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