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Inca Trail  / Inti Raymi

Best time to hike the Inca Trail

Best time to hike the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world. So, whe is the best time to hike?.

Most guidebooks state that autumn and winter are the best times for hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, since the weather tends to be moderate and stable, with clear skies. However, due to the complex nature of Peru’s geography and climate, there’s a lot more to this. An ever-increasing number of travelers visit Peru in spring and summer, and for good reason. With the right information, travel plan, and preparation, the Inca Trail in Peru is a great year-round destination.

Main Seasons to hike the Inca Trail

Winter

The winter season brings cold weather at higher elevations but is a great time to hike the Inca trail and alternative treks to Machu Picchu for crystal clear skies and wonderful landscapes. Treks to Machu Picchu in the lower foothills are perfect in winter like the short Inca Trail, Choquequirao, and huchuy Qoaqo; the trips to Amazon jungle is highly recommended

Spring

Spring season is a popular time to go trekking to Machu Picchu, as temperatures climb steadily and the weather tends to be more stable. Trails are more crowded, however, and the skies can be a bit misty at times. Spring features great festivals, including carnival in February or March.

Summer

The summer season is the wet season and brings hot, humid weather, with most trekking areas seeing cloudy skies and rain. During this season the rain comes at any time during the day or during the night. It’s important to be prepared with good waterproof shoes and rain gear. But trekkers are rewarded by splendid views. The fields are very green with plenty of flowers and more opportunities to see wildlife.

Fall

The fall season is the most popular trekking season because the weather is usually stable, temperatures are moderate, and skies tend to be clear. Since the weather conditions are at their best, the crowds are at their peak as well! Winter has the big festivals in the city of Cusco: The Inti Raymi (Sun festival) (June)

Best time to hike the Inca Trail

If I want to visit only Machu Picchu, when is the best time visit it?

  • If you are thinking to visit only Machu Picchu then the answer is at 6 or 7 AM or any time after 2 or 3PM.
  • If you want to be among the first to enter Machu Picchu, get on one of the first transfers that leave from the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) at 5:30 am. And purchase your entrance for 6:00AM
  • To do this, you must arrive at the bus stop at least two hours in advance to avoid crowds and be in the front of the line.
  • Make sure that your Machu Picchu tickets are timed for the 6:00 AM. If you do all this correctly, you will have the privilege of seeing the sunrise at Machu Picchu; if the weather allows you.
  • Alternatively, you can arrive after 2 or 3:00 PM after most of the crowds (at least 80%) have left Machu Picchu.
  • At this time of the day, the park rangers are more flexible and allow you to stay a little longer in certain places of Machu Picchu.

Conclusions

As you can see, there is not a perfect time (sunny, warm and dry months). You have to compromise according to your desires, if the rain bothers you more or if you are sensitive to cold.

However, we can say that (from the worst to the best time of year):

  • February is excluded because the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance the whole month.
  • January and March are to avoid if possible because of the rain.
  • April, November and December are a good compromise between an almost warm temperature and a nice weather.
  • May and October offer a nice weather with fresh temperatures.
  • June, July, August and September are, to us, the best time of year because the weather is very nice even if nights are cool but there is almost no rain.
Best time to hike the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – the trail toward the “Paqhaymayu” camp on the second day

The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is the most popular trekking destination in Peru, which you can trek all year around. During the autumn and winter the Inca Trail brings cold, dry weather and occasional snow in the highest pass named “Warmihuañusqha” at 4,200 m / 13997 ft. The skies are usually crystal clear, making winter one of the best seasons for unobstructed, brittle views of the mountains like Salkantay 6271m. The spring and summer are the season where the weather can change very rapid from rain to snow and to sunny.

Suggested packing list for the Inca Trail

  • Nicer clothes for night life in Cusco
  • Shorts (quick dry)
  • Pants (quick dry)
  • T-shirts (quick dry)
  • A warm fleece, down jacket, or wool sweater (available in Cusco)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Underwear and socks
  • Warm hat, gloves, & scarf
  • Water proof jacket & pants and/or rain poncho
  • After trekking trousers & t-shirt
  • Good, well worn-in hiking boots
  • After trek shoes (sandals)
  • Sleeping bag, -5C / 20F (available to rent)
  • Towel
  • Water bottles (2 liter capacity) , recomendable is the camelbags
  • Sunglasses – Eyeglasses or contacts (if necessary)
  • Sun hat
  • Head lamp & spare batteries
  • Book, notepaper & pen (optional)
  • Suntan lotion with 15 SPF or higher
  • After sun care – Lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera & spare battery (charging is not availability during the trek)
  • Personal toiletries (only soap is provided during the trek)
  • Money belt
  • Passport
  • Day pack & rain cover

Personal first aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, antiseptic cream, after bite, anti-diarrhea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication. (SUNRSE PERU TREK carries an extensive first aid kit & Oxygen on all trips, but these are generally for emergencies only)

Best time to hike the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – The viewpoint at Phuyupatamarka on the third day

Conclusion: When is the Best Season to hike the Inca Trail?

As described above, there is not a single answer to the question what is the best time to go to trekking the Inca Trail. While there is some truth to the conventional wisdom that spring and fall are great for trekking, winter and summer have distinct advantages as well. Increasingly travelers visit Inca Trail and Machu Pïcchu in every season and armed with the right trip plan Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a great year-round destination.

Brows the Inca Trail packages

INQUIRY NOW THIS TRIP

    WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

    Sunrise Peru Trek has over 20 years of experience operating unique adventure holidays on the paths less travelled. We offer our travellers big adventures with a small footprint.

    • Leaders in responsible adventure travel
    • Authentic experiences – our trips start where others end
    • Pioneers in designing ground breaking itineraries
    • Supported by some of the world’s most respected adventurers
    • Great value, high quality trips with all inclusive pricing and added comforts
    • Experts in creating flexible custom adventures



    ESSENTIAL INFO.

    Why Book with Sunrise Peru Trek?...

    At Sunriseperutrek.com, we have an intimate understanding of the unique travel needs and preferences of our Peru-based clientele. We offer an extensive selection of tour packages throughout Cusco, Machu Picchu, and beyond, designed to cater to a diverse range of traveler interests. If you’re seeking flexibility, our dynamic or customized tour and travel packages provide the opportunity to create and design your own unforgettable holiday. For those preferring a pre-planned itinerary, our fixed departure holiday packages offer a thoughtfully curated travel experience. Regardless of your travel style, rest assured that Sunrise Peru Trek can meet and exceed your holiday needs.

    At Sunrise Peru Trek, we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and commitment to providing the best possible travel experience for our clients. Our team is made up of experienced travel professionals who are passionate about sharing the beauty and culture of Peru with travelers from around the world.

    When you book with us, you can expect personalized attention and support throughout your journey. We understand that every traveler is unique, and we strive to create tailor-made itineraries that cater to your specific interests and preferences. Our goal is to make sure you have a stress-free and unforgettable experience while exploring the wonders of Peru.

    What does Sunrise Peru Trek offer?...

    Sunrise Peru Trek specializes in offering a wide range of tours, including popular Inca Trail Treks, Alternative Treks, Machupicchu Tours, Inti Raymi Tours, Cusco Day Tours,  Tours in Peru. They provide hassle-free holidays where all your travel needs are taken care of, including comfortable accommodation, convenient transfers, varied sightseeing options, and a plethora of activities to choose from. With tailor-made packages for destinations all over Peru, Sunrise Peru Trek caters to various holiday preferences, such as distinctive honeymoon experiences, exclusive tours for women, itineraries for solo travelers, families with kids, and those who are young at heart. They ensure an unparalleled tour experience that leaves a lasting impression.[/su_list]

    How to book a Tour with Sunrise Peru Trek?...

    Booking with Sunrise Peru Trek Travel & Tours is a breeze! Simply visit their user-friendly website and follow these steps:

    1. Use the convenient filters to select your desired city, travel dates, duration, and any specific preferences for hotels or types of holidays.
    2. Browse through the extensive list of Tour Packages that Sunrise Peru Trek offers.
    3. Choose a package that meets your needs, or customize your own package by selecting preferred hotels, adding sightseeing and activities.
    4. Once you have your ideal package ready, you can either book it online by clicking the button or contact their travel experts for immediate support via chat or by dropping a query.

    That's it! With Sunrise Peru Trek, booking your dream holiday tour package has never been easier.

    Arrival Information for your trip

    Upon your arrival in Cusco on the designated program start date, our attentive staff will be eagerly awaiting your presence at the airport. Rest assured, they will be holding a blackboard with your name displayed so that you can easily identify them. A swift and comfortable 15-minute transfer will then transport you to the meticulously selected hotel.

    Once settled into your accommodation, an informative briefing will be conducted. During this time, you can sip on a delightful cup of Coca tea, which comes highly recommended for acclimatization to the altitude. We will provide you with valuable insights about the city, as well as a comprehensive review of the meticulously curated tour itinerary.

    To ensure a seamless experience, please coordinate your flights to arrive at Cusco’s renowned “Alejandro Velasco Astete” International Airport (airport code CUZ) on your program start date. As the adventure reaches its conclusion, your journey ends in Cusco on the program’s scheduled end date. Please note that no activities are planned for this day, allowing you the freedom to depart at a time that suits your convenience.

    Eligibility & FAQ's

    To book your flights, please contact our dedicated fights team on +51 950 313131 who will do their best to get you the best deal on the day; please provide them with your full name as it is stated in your passport.

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    Before you make the call please make sure you have your required departure dates, return dates and other details you may require.

    Visas

    • Citizens of the United Kingdom do not require visas to travel to Peru if they are staying for under 180 days. Visa rules may change, so it is your responsibility to stay up to date with the current visa laws of the countries you are visiting and adhere to them.
    • All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay.
    • It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary visas for your travels and correct travel documents, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information offered below is to help you with that process. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise and any subsequent effects.
    • All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. Citizens of the United Kingdom do not require visas to travel to Peru if they are staying for under 180 days. Visa rules may change, so it is your responsibility to stay up to date with the current visa laws of the countries you are visiting and adhere to them.

    Travelling at Altitude

    This trip goes above 2,800 meters / 9,200 feet where it is common for travellers to experience some adverse effects in their health due to the altitude. Please see further information on Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).

    Travel Insurance

    On this trip you will be trekking at more than 2,000 meters / 6,561 ft above sea level, you therefore need to ensure you have suitable travel insurance in place.

    Can I Travel Solo?

    Yes, in fact many of our travellers choose to travel solo as our trips offer a fantastic opportunity to meet new people. This is a group trip, so there’ll be other people to share the experience with – you’re never truly travelling alone! You can also travel with a friend or partner, however you choose to participate you’re sure to have an amazing time!

    Can I Opt For My Own Room?

    You can opt for your own room, but it will incur an additional cost. Please note that you’ll be unable to have your own room during nights 3 to 5 when we will be hiking. For more details on opting for your own room, please contact us.

    Responsible travel...

    • Litter collection on our treks

      The 5 Pieces litter collection initiative, where travellers collect 5 or more pieces of plastic or paper litter on the trail each day, is offered on all of our treks. This simple yet effective initiative harnesses the collective power of tourists to keep wilderness trails clean and to educate local communities about the negative impact of litter on their environment and tourism economy.

    • Porter welfare policies

      All porters that we employ receive a good working wage that is regulated by the Trekking Agents Association of Peru and the Labor ministry of Peru, paying as per their guidelines, which are unionized. We are one of the only trekking companies in Peru to provide porters with three meals a day, prepared by our cooks, as well as lodging or tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags. Porters receive income protection and life insurance and have access to the same first aid care that travellers receive including emergency evacuation if required. Porters are provided with a wind and waterproof jacket and over-trousers, leather or canvas shoes and a warm cap, and carry a maximum of 20kgs in provided backpacks.

    • Eco-campsites

      Our series of eco-campsites during our treks contribute to the local economy by providing employment and yearly rent and by bringing trekkers into nearby villages to purchase handicrafts. The campsites minimize our environmental footprint by using biodegradable products.

    GROUP SIZE

    Small Group Service:

    Join our exclusive tour service:

    For Large Groups (04-12 people – maximum of 16): We guarantee two experienced guides to ensure the best experience. If your group consists of 06 people or more, please contact us for an exciting discount. By choosing our tour, you’ll have the chance to meet fellow hikers from around the world, creating unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.

    Large Group Service:

    Join our exclusive tour service:

    (04-12ppl Average – 16 People Max): 02 Guides over 08 people) If you are a group of 06 people or more, please contact us for an exclusive discount. By choosing this option, you’ll embark on an adventure with like-minded hikers from around the world, creating unforgettable memories and forging new friendships along the way.

    Private Group Service:

    Experience the ultimate adventure with our exclusive Private Group Tour. Whether you’re traveling with family, your special someone, or for your honeymoon, we have a special trek program designed just for you. With the flexibility to depart on any day and choose your preferred group size, your experience will be tailored to your preferences. Unlike other tours, we won’t add any people to your group – it will be arranged exclusively for you. Our Private Group Tours include additional services, such as extra porters, horses for riding, and assistance with carrying your personal gear on alternate treks. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with us and create unforgettable memories.

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