Would you like to take a tour of the city of Cusco and visit other nearby attractions? If so, please note that some places are only open to the public at specific times of the year. Before you make a decision and buy your tickets, we invite you to read the following article and find out what the best weather is to travel to Cusco!
What is the weather like in Cusco?
This wonderful and magical city is situated high in the Andes, at an elevation of 3,399 meters above sea level. Thanks to its strategic geographical location, the climate in Cusco is quite diverse. In fact, the weather can change in an instant. It is very common for a hot afternoon to give way to an evening with heavy rains.
During the winter, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire has a mild, spring-like climate with cold nights. The average maximum temperature is 17 °C and drops to -2 °C. On the other hand, during the summer, night temperatures are more moderate, hovering around 8 °C.
It is important to note that this city has two well-defined seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Therefore, to determine which is the best season to visit Cusco, it is necessary to know the characteristics of each of them.
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Dry season in Cusco
The dry season in Cusco begins in April and ends in mid-October. Throughout this season, weather conditions are favorable, so you can expect the streets to be full of tourists, especially in June and September.
During these months, you will enjoy sunny and warm days, so you will be able to photograph the clear blue skies characteristic of the Peruvian highlands. However, at night temperatures drop drastically to 2°C, so don’t forget to bring jackets and coats.
Also, if you plan to visit the city at this time, try to make hotel, excursion, and flight reservations weeks or months in advance. Keep in mind that tourist demand typically peaks around this time.
What activities can you do during the dry season?
- Kayaking in the Huaypo Lagoon.
- Stroll around the Plaza de Armas
- Watching the sunset from Inti Punku
- Visit the fortress of Sacsayhuamán
This is the best time to see Cusco’s most famous tourist attractions at their best! Dare to experience these activities with Kondor Path Tours and discover more about the history of Cusco in the company of our expert guides. With us, you can take advantage of this season to take a tour to Machu Picchu, hike to the Humantay Lagoon, and visit other popular destinations.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water! The sun radiation in the imperial city is high. Protect your skin and stay hydrated to make the most of this adventure.
What should you wear during the dry season?
Be sure to include the following items in your luggage:
- Comfortable pants or shorts
- Cotton polo shirts
- Coats and jackets
- Trekking shoes
- Caps and hats
- Sunglasses
- The rainy season in Cusco
The rainy season in Cusco extends from November to March. The city receives few visitors during this time, as some attractions are closed or undergoing maintenance due to rainfall. However, if you are an adventure lover and take the necessary precautions, the weather will not hinder you from having an authentic Andean experience!
In these months, the days remain warm, with an average temperature ranging from 18°C in the afternoon to 0°C at night. It usually rains once or twice a week, and clouds cover the sky most of the time.
Flights and package tours are cheaper due to low demand. Many travelers take advantage of these offers to visit the city of the Incas and walk the streets of Cusco without running into so many people.
What activities can you do during the rainy season?
- Relax in the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes.
- Visit the Santo Domingo Convent
- Learn about the history of the Coricancha temple
- Taste Coca tea at the Coca Museum
In general, we recommend doing indoor activities to avoid mishaps, but this does not mean you should not visit places like Machu Picchu. You just need to be cautious and stay informed about the city’s weather conditions before embarking on the tour.
What should you wear during the rainy season?
- Waterproof jackets and pants
- Gloves
- Trekking shoes
- Coats and sweaters
- Scarves, hats, and ponchos
So, what is the best time to visit Cusco? The answer will depend on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in during your stay in the city. After all, any time is the right time when you are prepared to face any kind of situation. Travel carefully, bring what you need, and let the adventure begin!
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