Weather & Climate in Cusco: Best Season to Travel

The Best Season to Travel to Cusco

Cusco has two well-defined seasons:

Rainy Season (November to April)

During these months, rainfall is frequent, especially between January and February, when it is most intense. Although the rains can be persistent, temperatures tend to be milder, with highs around 15°C and lows near 4°C. It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing and water-resistant footwear. Despite the rain, this season sees fewer visitors, so prices for various tourist attractions in Cusco are more accessible, and there is also greater accommodation availability.

Dry Season (May to September)

This period is characterized by clear skies and little rainfall. However, nights and early mornings are cold, with lows that can reach 0°C between June and July. Days are usually sunny, which creates marked temperature contrasts. During this season, the city receives a large number of tourists, especially in June, July, and August. Therefore, it is advisable to make reservations in advance for tours, accommodation, and tickets to sites like the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, or Machu Picchu, which tend to sell out very quickly.

Temperature Changes in Cusco

The climate in Cusco can vary significantly over the course of a single day. A clear sky in the morning can turn gray in the afternoon, forcing one to change clothes several times. Therefore, it is recommended to wear clothes in layers: light t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and light jackets that can be easily put on or taken off. This strategy is especially useful for adapting to the changing weather and sun exposure, which is more intense due to the altitude.

Solar Radiation and Skin Care

Cusco's altitude reduces the atmosphere's natural protection against ultraviolet rays. This means that sun exposure can cause burns more quickly than in other lower altitude areas. It is essential to use sunscreen every day, even if the sky is partially cloudy. It is also recommended to wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and clothing that covers arms and legs if you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Acclimatization to Altitude

One of the most important aspects of traveling to Cusco is adapting to the altitude. Many people experience what is called "soroche" or altitude sickness, which can include symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Some travelers feel better in a few hours with rest, hydration, and coca tea, while others may need one or two days of rest. In more severe cases, vomiting or difficulty breathing may occur, and it is advisable to go to a medical center or acquire supplemental oxygen, available in local pharmacies.

The most sensible thing to do is to rest upon arrival, avoid heavy meals, and drink water frequently. It is preferable to postpone demanding activities until fully acclimatized. Walking around the historic center can be a good way to stay active without overexerting the body during the first few days.

The Cusco Month by Month

January

• Maximum temperature: 15 °C
• Minimum temperature: 6 °C
• Sky: Mostly cloudy, frequent rains
• UV radiation: Moderate to high on sunny days
• Humidity: 80% – 85%

January is one of the rainiest months in Cusco. The number of visitors decreases after the first few days of the year. It is essential to bring a poncho or waterproof jacket. Although the skies are usually cloudy, there are times when it clears up a bit and the sun can be observed.

February

• Maximum temperature: 15 °C
• Minimum temperature: 6 °C
• Sky: Rain predominates, gray skies
• UV radiation: Moderate, although it rises if the sun appears
• Humidity: 85% – 90%

February is the period with the most rain. In addition, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu closes for maintenance, and during carnivals, the city fills with music and color. With some luck, you can capture images of rainbows over the city. It is essential to have waterproof clothing.

March

• Maximum temperature: 16 °C
• Minimum temperature: 5 °C
• Sky: Cloudy, intermittent rains
• UV radiation: High during sunny hours
• Humidity: 75% – 80%

March continues with rains, although less intense than in February. The landscapes remain green, ideal for photographs. The last days of carnival are still celebrated during the first Sunday of the month.

April

• Maximum temperature: 17 °C
• Minimum temperature: 4 °C
• Sky: Mixed with sunny days and some rain
• UV radiation: High
• Humidity: 60% – 65%

April marks the beginning of the transition to the dry season. Nights begin to cool and the climate becomes pleasant for visiting Machu Picchu and enjoying photographs with clear skies. The influx of tourists begins to increase.

May

• Maximum temperature: 18 °C
• Minimum temperature: 2 °C
• Sky: Generally clear
• UV Radiation: Very high
• Humidity: 50 % – 55 %

May marks the start of the dry season. Days are bright, perfect for hikes and excursions. Nights become cold, so warm clothing is recommended, while light clothing is sufficient during the day. It is considered one of the best months to visit the city of Cusco.

June

• Maximum temperature: 19 °C
• Minimum temperature: 0 °C
• Sky: Mostly sunny
• UV Radiation: Very high to extreme
• Humidity: 45 % – 50 %

June is the most festive month. Inti Raymi the Festival of the Sun, one of Cusco's most important festivities, is celebrated with dances, music, and historical re-enactments. Days are usually clear and pleasant, but nights are the coldest of the year. It is essential to book accommodation and tours in advance.

July

• Maximum temperature: 19 °C
• Minimum temperature: 0 °C
• Sky: Sun predominates, almost no rain
• UV Radiation: Very high to extreme
• Humidity: 40 % – 45 %

July is one of the months with the highest tourist influx. Dry weather and clear skies facilitate visits to Machu Picchu and other places. Nights are cold, so warm clothing is needed. Booking in advance is key.

August

• Maximum temperature: 20 °C
• Minimum temperature: 1 °C
• Sky: Generally sunny, occasionally windy
• UV Radiation: Very high to extreme
• Humidity: 40 % – 45 %

August maintains a dry climate, with sunny days and cold nights. On the 1st, Pachamama Day is celebrated, with rituals dedicated to the earth. The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is usually crowded, especially during the early morning hours.

September

• Maximum temperature: 21 °C
• Minimum temperature: 4 °C
• Sky: Sunny with some clouds
• UV radiation: High to very high
• Humidity: 50% – 55%

September presents somewhat milder temperatures, especially during the night. The number of tourists decreases slightly, allowing you to enjoy the tourist sites with greater tranquility. It is a balanced month in terms of climate and visitors.

October

• Maximum temperature: 21 °C
• Minimum temperature: 5 °C
• Sky: Mix of sun, clouds and stronger winds
• UV radiation: High
• Humidity: 55% – 60%

In October, winds blow with greater intensity. Although the days remain mild, the nights are no longer as cold as in winter. It is a recommended month for hikes and outdoor activities, with fewer tourist crowds.

November

• Maximum temperature: 20 °C
• Minimum temperature: 6 °C
• Sky: Partially cloudy, rains begin
• UV radiation: High
• Humidity: 65% – 70%

November marks the progressive return of the rains. The climate is pleasant, with moderate temperatures. On the 1st, the All Saints' Day celebration takes place, accompanied by music and gastronomic fairs. The landscapes begin to turn green.

December

• Maximum temperature: 19 °C
• Minimum temperature: 6 °C
• Sky: Cloudy, frequent rains
• UV radiation: Moderate to high, variable depending on the day
• Humidity: 75% – 80%

In December, the rains intensify, although the nights are not as cold as in June or July. Cusco is filled with a festive atmosphere for Christmas and New Year. On the 25th, the Santurantikuy fair is held in the Plaza de Armas, a very popular tradition for locals and visitors.

When is the best time to visit Cusco?

The dry season, between May and September, is the most recommended if you are looking for good weather to explore without interruptions due to rain. However, due to the increase in the number of visitors, prices go up and advance planning becomes essential. On the other hand, the rainy season offers green landscapes and mist-covered mountains, as well as fewer tourists and a calmer atmosphere, although it requires greater preparation for the weather conditions.

The month of May is an excellent option for those who wish to avoid both heavy rains and most of the crowds, as the weather is stable and the tourist flow has not yet reached its peak.