Best Time Of Year To Travel To Machu Picchu Peru
Machu Picchu is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, and for many people, visiting this ancient Inca city is a lifelong dream. However, when planning a trip to Machu Picchu, it's important to consider the best time of year to visit. The weather, the crowds, and the cost of travel can all be factors that impact your experience. In this article, we'll explore the best time of year to travel to Machu Picchu Peru.
Overview of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city located in the Andes mountains of Peru. It was built in the 15th century and abandoned less than a century later during the Spanish conquest. The site was rediscovered in 1911 and has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Machu Picchu is open to visitors year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and priorities.
The Dry Season (May - October)
The dry season in Peru runs from May to October, which is also the peak tourist season for Machu Picchu. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with little to no rain. The dry season is a popular time to visit because the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering excellent views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
However, the dry season is also the busiest time to visit Machu Picchu, so you can expect larger crowds, longer lines, and higher prices for tours, accommodations, and transportation. If you're planning a trip during the dry season, it's important to book your tickets and accommodations well in advance to avoid being disappointed.
The Wet Season (November - April)
The wet season in Peru runs from November to April, which is also the low tourist season for Machu Picchu. During these months, the weather is generally wet and cloudy, with occasional rainfall throughout the day. The wet season is a less popular time to visit Machu Picchu, but it can offer some advantages if you're willing to brave the rain.
During the wet season, the prices for tours, accommodations, and transportation are generally lower, and the crowds are smaller, so you can have a more peaceful and intimate experience of Machu Picchu. Additionally, the rainy weather can create a mystical and enchanting atmosphere, especially in the early morning when the fog is still hanging over the mountains.
The Shoulder Seasons (April and October)
The months of April and October fall between the dry and wet seasons, and they are considered the shoulder seasons for Machu Picchu. During these months, the weather is generally mild, with some rain and occasional clouds. The shoulder seasons are a good compromise if you want to avoid the crowds and the higher prices of the dry season, but you don't want to deal with the heavy rain of the wet season.
Additionally, the shoulder seasons offer some unique opportunities to experience Machu Picchu. In April, you can witness the Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, which is a traditional Inca celebration that takes place on June 24th. In October, you can witness the Day of the Dead, which is a colorful and festive celebration of life and death.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no one "best" time of year to travel to Machu Picchu Peru. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and priorities. If you want sunny and dry weather, and don't mind the crowds and the higher prices, then the dry season (May to October) may be the best option for you. If you want more peaceful and intimate experience and don't mind the rain and occasional clouds, then the wet season (November to April) may be the best option. Finally, if you want a good compromise between the two, and want to witness some unique cultural events, then the shoulder seasons (April and October) may be the best option for you.