Best Time to do Inca Trail
The best time to do the Inca Trail in Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making for ideal hiking conditions.
The dry season is also the peak tourist season, so it’s important to book your Inca Trail permit well in advance, as they sell out quickly. Additionally, the trail can get quite crowded during this time, which may detract from the experience for some hikers.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons of April and October can also be good times to hike the Inca Trail. The weather is generally still dry during these months, but there are fewer visitors on the trail.
During the rainy season, which runs from November to March, the trail can be muddy and slippery, making hiking conditions more challenging. However, some hikers prefer the quieter trails during this time and the lush greenery that comes with the rainy season.
It’s important to note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance every February, so it’s not possible to hike during that month.
Overall, the best time to do the Inca Trail is during the dry season from May to September. However, with proper planning and preparation, the trail can be hiked year-round, and each season has its own unique advantages and challenges.
Weather map in real time according to SENAMHI Peru
The Inca Trail Month by Month
- Towards the end of February, the Andes experience heavy rainfall, making it the wettest month of the year. During this time, the Inca Trail and several other national parks in Peru are closed for maintenance, but Machu Picchu remains open.
- The trail reopens in March, although the highlands are still rainy through early April. May and October are the best times to trek the Inca Trail as the weather is dry and warmer than June, July, and August. These months are also less crowded, and permits may sell out slightly slower than during peak season.
- The Festival of the Sun (Inti Raymi) takes place towards the end of June, and crowds flock to Machu Picchu and Cuzco. The end of July, Peru’s national holiday, is another popular time to tackle the Inca Trail or visit Machu Picchu. Dry conditions make August and September a popular time for travelers.
- By November, the rainy season is starting again, but trekking conditions are still favorable, and the crowds are much smaller than during peak season. December is a wet month that attracts crowds over the holidays, resulting in higher accommodation and flight prices. Things ease off in January, which is still wet but without the holiday crowds.