Month-by-Month Weather
Heavy snow at pass possible. Jungle sections very lush. Challenging but doable with proper gear. Fewer hikers.
Wettest month. Heavy snow at pass. Inca Trail is closed but Salkantay remains open — great alternative. Expert gear required.
Rain easing by end of March. Glacier at its most dramatic. Jungle in full bloom. Good availability and prices.
Transitioning to dry season. Clear mornings, some afternoon showers. Wildflowers blooming. Excellent choice.
Start of best season. Clear glacier views. Cold nights at pass. Growing demand — book in advance.
Peak season. Spectacular glacier views. Very cold nights — best sleeping bag essential. Clear skies most days.
Driest month. Coldest nights of the year at the pass. Crystal clear Salkantay glacier views. Busiest period.
Excellent conditions continue. Slight warming vs July. Wind can pick up near the pass. Still peak season.
End of peak season. Slightly fewer hikers with equally superb conditions. Highly recommended.
First rains returning. Jungle turns green. Still good mornings at the pass. Great value.
Rains increasing. Lush jungle. Fewer trekkers. Good value. Waterproof gear essential.
Rainy season begins. Snow possible at pass. Spectacular glacier atmosphere. For experienced trekkers.
Temperature by Climate Zone
| Zone / Camp | Altitude | Day Temp (Dry) | Night Temp (Dry) | Night Temp (Rainy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soraypampa Camp (Night 1) | 3,900 m | 12–15 °C | −3–0 °C | 0–3 °C |
| Salkantay Pass (Day 2 summit) | 4,638 m | 5–10 °C | −15–−8 °C | −10–−5 °C |
| Chaullay Camp (Night 2) | 2,900 m | 18–22 °C | 8–12 °C | 10–14 °C |
| La Playa / Colpapampa (Night 3) | 2,050 m | 22–26 °C | 12–16 °C | 14–18 °C |
| Lucmabamba / Llactapata (Day 4) | 1,800 m | 24–28 °C | 14–17 °C | 16–19 °C |
| Aguas Calientes (Night 4) | 2,040 m | 22–25 °C | 12–15 °C | 14–17 °C |
| Machu Picchu (Day 5 arrival) | 2,430 m | 20–24 °C | — | — |