Best Times to Visit in Cusco, Cusco, Peru

Cusco, Peru, Cusco, General City Overview, Best Times to Visit

Best Times to Visit in Cusco, Cusco, Peru

1. Inca Trail Hike

Hike the iconic Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu. Best time is during the dry season (April-October) for clearer views and easier terrain.
  • Weather: Dry weather makes hiking more enjoyable
  • Crowds: Fewer crowds during the rainy season (November-March)
  • Terrain: Easier terrain during the dry season

2. Machu Picchu Visit

Visit the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. The best time is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets.
  • Crowds: Avoid large tourist groups by visiting during off-peak hours
  • Lighting: Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets
  • Weather: More comfortable temperatures in the early morning and late afternoon

3. Inti Raymi Festival

Witness the traditional Inti Raymi festival celebrating the Incan sun god. The best time to visit is during the summer solstice (June 24th).
  • Cultural Experience: Experience an authentic Peruvian cultural event
  • Timing: The festival takes place on the summer solstice
  • Crowds: Expect large crowds during the festival

4. Qorikancha Visit

Visit Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun. The best time is during festivals like Inti Raymi for a more immersive experience.
  • Cultural Experience: Experience an authentic Peruvian cultural event during festivals
  • Architecture: Admire the intricate Incan architecture
  • Weather: More comfortable temperatures during the dry season (April-October)

5. Sacsayhuaman Visit

Explore Sacsayhuaman, an Incan fortress. The best time is during the dry season (April-October) for easier access and clearer views.
  • Weather: Dry weather makes exploration more enjoyable
  • Accessibility: Easier access during the dry season
  • Architecture: Admire the massive stone blocks of the fortress

6. Cusco City Tour

Discover Cusco's rich history and culture. The best time is during the dry season (April-October) for comfortable exploration.
  • Weather: Comfortable temperatures during the dry season
  • Accessibility: Easier access to various sites during the dry season
  • Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich Incan and colonial culture of Cusco

7. Rainbow Mountain Hike

Hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain for breathtaking views. The best time is during the dry season (May-October) for clearer skies.
  • Weather: Clearer skies during the dry season
  • Crowds: Fewer crowds during the rainy season (November-April)
  • Scenery: Experience vibrant, colorful mountains

8. Lake Humantay Hike

Hike to picturesque Lake Humantay for stunning views. The best time is during the dry season (May-October) for clearer skies and easier hiking.
  • Weather: Clearer skies during the dry season
  • Scenery: Experience beautiful alpine lakes and glaciers
  • Hiking Difficulty: Easier hiking during the dry season

9. Pisac Market Visit

Visit Pisac Market for local Peruvian crafts and produce. The best time is during the weekdays for fewer tourists.
  • Local Experiences: Interact with local Peruvians and experience their culture
  • Crowds: Fewer crowds during the weekdays
  • Shopping: Find unique Peruvian souvenirs and produce

10. Ollantaytambo Visit

Explore the Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo. The best time is during the dry season (April-October) for easier access and clearer views.
  • Weather: Dry weather makes exploration more enjoyable
  • Architecture: Admire the intricate Incan architecture
  • Accessibility: Easier access during the dry season

11. Maras Salt Mines Visit

Visit the Maras Salt Mines for a unique cultural experience. The best time is during the dry season (May-October) for easier access.
  • Cultural Experience: Experience traditional salt mining methods
  • Weather: Dry weather makes exploration more enjoyable
  • Accessibility: Easier access during the dry season

12. Moray Agricultural Terraces Visit

Explore the mysterious Moray Agricultural Terraces. The best time is during the dry season (May-October) for easier access.
  • Weather: Dry weather makes exploration more enjoyable
  • Architecture: Admire the unique Incan architectural design
  • Accessibility: Easier access during the dry season

13. Chinchero Village Visit

Visit the picturesque Chinchero Village for traditional Peruvian textiles. The best time is during the weekdays for fewer tourists.
  • Local Experiences: Interact with local Peruvians and experience their culture
  • Crowds: Fewer crowds during the weekdays
  • Shopping: Find unique Peruvian textiles and handicrafts

14. Santa Teresa Hot Springs

Relax in the natural hot springs of Santa Teresa. The best time is during the dry season (April-October) for easier access.
  • Weather: Dry weather makes relaxation more enjoyable
  • Relaxation: Enjoy a peaceful, natural experience
  • Accessibility: Easier access during the dry season

15. White Water Rafting

Experience exhilarating white water rafting on the Urubamba River. The best time is during the wet season (November-March) for more challenging rapids.
  • Adventure: Experience adrenaline-pumping white water rafting
  • Weather: More challenging rapids during the wet season
  • Safety: Professional guides ensure safety during the adventure