Visiting Cusco is an unforgettable experience, but to make the most of this jewel of the Peruvian Andes, it’s essential to understand the weather, tourist seasons, and the best months to travel. Many travelers ask, “What is the best season to visit Cusco?”, and the answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for—whether it’s dry weather for trekking or vibrant festivals like Inti Raymi. In this quick guide on the best time to visit Cusco, we’ll answer all your questions so you can plan your trip in the best possible way.
Table of Contents
1. What are the seasons in Cusco?
Cusco only has two well-defined seasons:
- Dry season (April – October): You’ll find sunny days, clear skies, and cold nights. Ideal for trekking and visiting Cusco’s top destinations, including the world wonder, Machu Picchu.
- Rainy season (November – March): During these months, frequent rains are common; however, this season offers lush green landscapes and fewer tourists.
2. What is the best season to visit Cusco?
The best time to travel to Cusco depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for—here’s all the detailed information.
| Month | Weather and Recommendations |
| April – May | Green landscapes after the rainy season, mild weather, and fewer tourists. |
| June – August | High season. Dry and sunny weather with larger crowds. In June, there are daily festivals, including one of Cusco’s most important events, Inti Raymi. |
| September – October | Mild weather and fewer crowds. Perfect for hiking and cultural tourism. |
| November – March | Frequent rains, but ideal for those seeking fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and discounts on hotels and tours. |
3. What are the most important festivals in Cusco?
Cusco is a vibrant city with festivals throughout the year. Some of the most important include:
- Inti Raymi (June 24): The Festival of the Sun, the most important event on the Inca calendar for Andean peoples. It is held in honor of the Sun, considered the Inca god. Inti Raymi is a colorful celebration full of music and dances, where locals revive ancestral traditions. Ceremonies are held at the Sacsayhuamán fortress, reenacting rituals the Incas performed to ask the Sun for good harvests and protection.
- Corpus Christi (June): A religious celebration featuring impressive processions, traditional dances, music, and many Cusqueñan customs. The colonial-era traditions make this one of the most spectacular festivals, blending Catholicism with local culture.
- National Holidays (July 28 and 29): National celebrations with parades and special events. It’s a time when Peruvians proudly celebrate their history and culture. There are concerts, fireworks, and traditional food bringing families together.
4. What’s the weather like in other cities in Peru?
If your trip includes other cities in Peru, it’s important to consider their weather conditions:
| City | Best time to visit |
|---|---|
| Lima | Generally, Lima has an arid and semi-warm climate. From December to April, it’s summer in Lima—ideal for beach visits. |
| Arequipa | April to December (dry weather). However, the “White City” of Arequipa has mild weather year-round. |
| Ica | Being in the middle of the desert, Ica is mostly sunny year-round. |
| Puno | April to October offers clear skies—perfect for visiting Lake Titicaca. |
5. Recommendations by season
- If you’re traveling in the dry season: Bring warm clothes for the cold nights, a hat, light clothing, and sunscreen for sunny days.
- If you’re traveling in the rainy season: Wear a raincoat, waterproof shoes, and a poncho.
- Book in advance: If you’re traveling during the high season (June – August), make sure to book hotels, tours, and especially Machu Picchu tickets at least 4 months in advance.
