What is the best time to visit Cusco?
Cusco has a very unique Andean climate. It doesn’t have traditional seasons like summer or winter. Instead, it has two main seasonal periods that directly affect your experience:
- Dry season
- Rainy season
This guide breaks down the weather in Cusco by month, includes real traveler tips, and expert advice to help you pick the perfect time for your trip.
Weather in Cusco by Month
Located at 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) above sea level, Cusco’s weather can change multiple times in a single day. Here’s an annual summary:
January – March | Rainy Season
- Frequent rains
- Lush green landscapes
- Fewer tourists
- Moderate temperatures
- Ideal for flexible travelers
- Long hikes may be affected
January and February are the wettest months.
April – May | Perfect Transition
- Less rainfall
- Clearer skies
- Green, photogenic mountains
- Good balance of weather and tourism
Considered one of the best times to visit Cusco.
June – August | Dry Season & Peak Tourism
- Dry, sunny days
- Intense blue skies
- No rain
- Cold nights
- Best period for hiking and Machu Picchu
- High tourist season
June is also famous for Inti Raymi, Peru’s biggest cultural festival.
September – October | Andean Spring
- Pleasant weather
- Nights less cold than June
- Fewer tourists than peak season
- Excellent visibility
Experts consider this a hidden gem period for travel.
November – December | Start of the Rainy Season
- Partly cloudy days
- Mild temperatures
- First light rains
- Good time to avoid crowds
- Landscapes start turning green