Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, and its weather follows a pattern that is quite different from what most travelers expect. There is no summer or winter in the traditional sense — instead, the year is divided into a dry season and a rainy season, each offering a very different experience.

Understanding this rhythm is the key to planning a trip that matches your priorities, whether that means perfect hiking weather, vibrant festivals, fewer crowds or lower prices. Here is everything you need to know about visiting Cusco in 2026, broken down month by month.

Cusco's Two Main Seasons

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is when Cusco sees the most visitors, and for good reason. Days are sunny and clear, with bright blue skies that are perfect for photography, hiking and exploring ruins. Rain is rare during these months, making it the ideal time for trekking the Inca Trail or visiting Machu Picchu.

However, the dry season also brings the coldest nights. Temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F) or below after sunset, especially in June and July. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, usually between 18°C and 22°C (64°F to 72°F).

Rainy Season (November to March)

The rainy season turns Cusco and the surrounding valleys into a lush green landscape. Rain typically falls in the afternoons and evenings, with mornings often starting clear and sunny. This means you can still enjoy outdoor activities if you start early.

The rainy season is also the low season for tourism, which means fewer crowds at popular sites, lower hotel prices and a more authentic feel. The trade-off is that some trekking routes close (the Inca Trail shuts down every February for maintenance) and muddy trails can make hiking more challenging.

Month-by-Month Guide to Cusco in 2026

January — Deep Rainy Season

January is one of the wettest months in Cusco, with an average of 160mm of rainfall. Afternoon showers are almost guaranteed, and trails can be muddy and slippery. However, the landscape is at its greenest and most beautiful.

Why visit: Lowest prices of the year, virtually no crowds at Machu Picchu, and the stunning green scenery. If you do not mind carrying a rain jacket, January offers an incredibly authentic experience.

Average temperature: 7°C to 19°C (45°F to 66°F)

February — Wettest Month and Carnival

February is the peak of the rainy season and the wettest month overall. The Inca Trail closes for the entire month for annual maintenance and conservation. However, other routes to Machu Picchu remain open, and the city comes alive with Carnival celebrations.

Why visit: Carnival in Cusco is a colorful, joyful experience with water fights, music, dancing and traditional food. Hotel and tour prices are at their lowest.

Average temperature: 7°C to 19°C (45°F to 66°F)

March — Rains Begin to Ease

March marks the transition from rainy to dry season. Rain still falls regularly but with less intensity than January and February. The Inca Trail reopens and trekking conditions begin to improve.

Why visit: Good balance of lower prices and improving weather. The Inca Trail reopens with fresh maintenance, and you will find fewer hikers on the trail than in peak months.

Average temperature: 7°C to 19°C (45°F to 66°F)

April — The Sweet Spot

April is one of the best months to visit Cusco. The rains have largely stopped, the hills are still green from the wet season, and tourist numbers have not yet reached peak levels. Prices remain 20 to 30 percent lower than the June to August peak.

Why visit: Excellent weather, green landscapes, manageable crowds and shoulder-season prices. Many experienced travelers consider April the ideal month for Cusco.

Average temperature: 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)

May — Dry Season Begins

May officially starts the dry season, and the weather is outstanding. Clear skies, warm days and cool nights make it perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Tourism is picking up but has not reached peak levels yet.

Why visit: Perhaps the single best month to visit Cusco — dry weather, green landscapes still lingering from the rains, and prices are 20 to 25 percent lower than June through August.

Average temperature: 3°C to 20°C (37°F to 68°F)

June — Peak Season and Inti Raymi

June is the start of peak tourist season and one of the driest months of the year. It is also home to Cusco's most important festival: Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, held on June 24th. This spectacular celebration honors the Inca sun god with colorful parades, traditional dances and ceremonial rituals at the fortress of Sacsayhuaman.

Why visit: Inti Raymi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The weather is excellent for outdoor activities, and the festive atmosphere in the city is electric. Book well in advance — hotel prices can double around the festival.

Average temperature: 1°C to 20°C (34°F to 68°F)

July — Peak Season, Coldest Nights

July is the heart of the dry season and one of the busiest months for tourism. Days are sunny and clear, perfect for hiking and photography, but nights are the coldest of the year, sometimes dropping below freezing.

Why visit: Guaranteed dry weather is ideal for the Inca Trail and other treks. Fiestas Patrias (Peruvian Independence Day) on July 28-29 brings celebrations and special events.

Average temperature: 0°C to 20°C (32°F to 68°F)

August — Peak Season Continues

August mirrors July in terms of weather and tourism. Clear skies and dry conditions persist, making it another popular month for trekking and visiting archaeological sites. Crowds are still high and so are prices.

Why visit: Reliable dry weather continues. The Pachamama (Mother Earth) festival on August 1st offers a glimpse into Andean spiritual traditions.

Average temperature: 1°C to 20°C (34°F to 68°F)

September — Crowds Thin Out

September is a hidden gem for visiting Cusco. The dry season is still in full swing, with warm days and clear skies, but tourist numbers begin to drop as the Northern Hemisphere summer ends. Prices start to ease as well.

Why visit: Great weather with fewer tourists than July and August. An excellent time for trekking and visiting ruins in relative peace.

Average temperature: 3°C to 19°C (37°F to 66°F)

October — Warm and Pleasant

October is the warmest month in Cusco and one of the last dry months before the rains return. Skies are generally clear and sunny, though you may see occasional light showers toward the end of the month.

Why visit: The warmest temperatures of the year, still mostly dry, and shoulder-season pricing. A fantastic time to visit if you want warmth without peak-season crowds.

Average temperature: 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)

November — Transition to Rain

November marks the gradual return of the rains. Early November often feels like an extension of the dry season, but by the end of the month, afternoon showers become more frequent.

Why visit: Lower prices than the dry season, manageable weather if you visit in early November, and fewer tourists at all major sites.

Average temperature: 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)

December — Rainy Season Returns

December brings regular afternoon rains and the beginning of the low tourist season. Christmas celebrations in Cusco are special, with the Santuranticuy market on December 24th filling the Plaza de Armas with artisan crafts and traditional nativity figures.

Why visit: Christmas in Cusco is magical, with unique markets and celebrations. Prices drop significantly, and the city has a warm, local feel without the tourist crowds.

Average temperature: 6°C to 19°C (43°F to 66°F)

Quick Comparison: When to Visit Cusco

For a quick overview, here is how the months compare across the factors that matter most to travelers:

Best weather: May, June, July, August, September

Best value: January, February, March, November, December

Fewest crowds: January, February, November, December

Best festivals: February (Carnival), June (Inti Raymi), July (Fiestas Patrias), December (Santuranticuy)

Best for trekking: April, May, June, September, October

Avoid if possible: February for trekking (Inca Trail closed)

What to Pack for Cusco

No matter when you visit, packing the right clothing makes a big difference at this altitude.

Always bring: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and lip balm with SPF. The UV rays at 3,400 meters are intense, even on cloudy days.

Dry season (May-October): Warm layers for cold nights — thermal base layers, a fleece jacket and a windproof outer layer. Gloves and a beanie are essential for June and July nights.

Rainy season (November-April): A good waterproof jacket, waterproof hiking boots, and a small packable umbrella. Quick-dry clothing is more practical than cotton.

Year-round: Comfortable walking shoes, a daypack, a reusable water bottle, and coca tea or candies for altitude adjustment.

Plan Your Cusco Trip

The best time to visit Cusco depends entirely on your priorities. If you want guaranteed sunshine for trekking, aim for May to September. If you prefer lower prices and fewer crowds, the rainy season from November to March offers excellent value — just bring a good rain jacket.

Whatever month you choose, Cusco never disappoints. The combination of ancient history, stunning mountain scenery and warm local culture makes it a destination worth visiting any time of year.

Ready to plan your trip? At Cusco Tours, we design personalized itineraries based on your travel dates, interests and budget. Whether you are visiting in peak season or taking advantage of rainy season deals, we help you make the most of every day in Cusco. Contact us to start planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Cusco?

May and September are often considered the best overall months — they offer dry weather, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the June-August peak season, plus lower prices.

Is it worth visiting Cusco in the rainy season?

Yes. The rainy season (November to March) offers significantly lower prices, fewer tourists, and a beautifully green landscape. Rain usually falls in the afternoons, so mornings are often clear for sightseeing.

When is the cheapest time to visit Cusco?

January and February offer the lowest prices for hotels, tours and flights. You can save 30 to 50 percent compared to peak season rates.

Is the Inca Trail open year-round?

No. The Inca Trail closes every February for annual maintenance. All other months it is open, but permits sell out months in advance during the June-August peak season.

How cold does it get in Cusco at night?

In the dry season (June-August), nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F) or below. Even in warmer months, nights are cool, so always bring warm layers.

Does it rain every day in the rainy season?

No. Rain is most common in the afternoons and evenings. Mornings are frequently clear and sunny, giving you a good window for outdoor activities if you start early.