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Contents
- The climate of Machu Picchu
- The best time to visit Machu Picchu
- The worst time to visit Machu Picchu
- Spring weather in Machu Picchu
- Summer weather in Machu Picchu
- Autumn weather in Machu Picchu
- Winter weather in Machu Picchu
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The staircase landscape illusion overlooking the vast mountain ranges in Machu Picchu, Peru, serving as a great wonder of the world
The climate of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Peru, is situated within a climatic zone classified as marine west coast, cool summer (Cfc) according to the Köppen climate classification. This climatic classification is predominantly influenced by its position along the country's coast as well as its altitude.
Weather patterns in Machu Picchu are not greatly varied throughout the year. Throughout the year, rainfall ranges from a monthly average of 17mm (0.67") to 151mm (5.94"), with the highest amounts of rainfall typically occurring between January and March. Daylight hours range from 11.4 hours to 12.9 hours, while monthly average sunshine hours stay somewhat constant around seven to eight hours per day.
The UV index is high throughout the year with monthly averages of 10 to 12, while temperatures fluctuate from a low of 9°C (48.2°F) to a high of 26°C (78.8°F). Unique weather patterns worth noting include the dry months of June and July, with only 17mm (0.67") and 22mm (0.87") of rainfall respectively, and the consistently comfortable temperatures year-round, ranging from 11°C (51.8°F) to 26°C (78.8°F).
Weather patterns in Machu Picchu are not greatly varied throughout the year. Throughout the year, rainfall ranges from a monthly average of 17mm (0.67") to 151mm (5.94"), with the highest amounts of rainfall typically occurring between January and March. Daylight hours range from 11.4 hours to 12.9 hours, while monthly average sunshine hours stay somewhat constant around seven to eight hours per day.
The UV index is high throughout the year with monthly averages of 10 to 12, while temperatures fluctuate from a low of 9°C (48.2°F) to a high of 26°C (78.8°F). Unique weather patterns worth noting include the dry months of June and July, with only 17mm (0.67") and 22mm (0.87") of rainfall respectively, and the consistently comfortable temperatures year-round, ranging from 11°C (51.8°F) to 26°C (78.8°F).
The best time to visit Machu Picchu
Considering the weather conditions and the climatic factors, the best time to plan a visit to Machu Picchu would be during the drier months from May to September. These months typically have the least amount of rainfall, ranging from 17mm (0.67") in June, to 24mm (0.94") in August. Sunshine hours reach an average of around eight hours per day, with daylight hours also increasing to a maximum of 12.9 hours in June. Temperatures during this time stay in a comfortable range from 9°C (48.2°F) to 25°C (77°F), making it pleasant for outdoor exploration.
The worst time to visit Machu Picchu
The months from January to March are likely to be the less favorable for visiting Machu Picchu, due to the increase in rainfall, reaching a peak of 151mm (5.94") in March. Despite the temperatures remaining relatively mild ranging from 13°C (55.4°F) to 25°C (77°F), the increased precipitation can make it more challenging to navigate the terrain and can lead to potential site closures.
Spring weather in Machu Picchu
Spring in Machu Picchu, from September to November, sees a gradual increase in rainfall from 24mm (0.94") to 86mm (3.39"). Yet, temperatures remain hospitable hovering between 12°C (53.6°F) and 26°C (78.8°F). The daylight hours increase during this period from 11.7 hours to 12.7 hours, providing ample time for tourists to explore.
Summer weather in Machu Picchu
Summer in Machu Picchu, from December to February, is very wet with rainfall reaching its peak at 151mm (5.94") in March. Daylight hours during these months range from 12.8 to 12.2 hours and temperatures continue to be moderate, ranging from 13°C (55.4°F) to 25°C (77°F).
Autumn weather in Machu Picchu
Autumn, from March to May, sees a significant decrease in rainfall, from 151mm (5.94") to a mere 23mm (0.91"). Temperatures start to drop, varying from 11°C (51.8°F) to 25°C (77°F). The daylight hours decline slightly from 11.8 to 11.5 hours during this period.
Winter weather in Machu Picchu
The winter months of June to August in Machu Picchu are relatively dry, with minimum rainfall, between 17mm (0.67") to 24mm (0.94"), making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer less precipitation. Daylight hours increase to between 11.4 to 11.7 hours. Temperatures during these months are slightly cooler, ranging from 9°C (48.2°F) to 25°C (77°F), yet still within a comfortable range for visitors.
Weather in January
With a steady high of 24°C (75.2°F), January in Machu Picchu, Peru, starts the year with a pleasant subtropical highland climate. This month presents considerably more rainfall, with an average precipitation of 138mm (5.43") across 15 days. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, sees continued rainfall compared to January, making it one of the wettest months. The increase in the number of rainy days from 15 in January to 20 in February is especially notable. February's temperatures are consistent with January's, the highs remaining at 25°C (77°F) and the lows at 13°C (55.4°F). Weather in February »
Weather in March
Peru's Machu Picchu weather in March transitions into the final part of the rainy season, with rainfall reducing to 151mm (5.94") from February's 141mm (5.55"). The difference in temperature between March and the preceding month is minute, both months recording a high of 25°C (77°F) and a low of 13°C (55.4°F). Weather in March »
Weather in April
April's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, is considerably drier than that of March, with rainfall greatly reduced to 62mm (2.44"). Subsequently, the count of rainy days drops to 9 from the 13 experienced in March. With high temperatures remaining constant at 25°C (77°F), the low temperature experiences a slight decrease to 12°C (53.6°F). Weather in April »
Weather in May
May's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, is characterized by a marked decrease in rainfall compared to April, making it one of the driest months. The decrease in temperatures is even more notable with lows dropping to 11°C (51.8°F) from April's 12°C (53.6°F). Weather in May »
Weather in June
June's weather at Machu Picchu, Peru, continues the trend of the dry season established in May. The lower temperature further decreases to 9°C (48.2°F), hinting at the coldest months of the year. Rainfall is at its minimum, with a recorded average of 17mm (0.67") making June one of the driest months. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, features the lowest temperatures of the year, with mercury dipping to 9°C (48.2°F). Despite this cold fact, the high temperatures remain steady at 25°C (77°F), offering a refreshing contrast throughout the day. Weather in July »
Weather in August
In August, the weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, is similar to that in July, taking into account the low temperatures which rise marginally to 10°C (50°F) and rainfall amounts of 24mm (0.94"). As it is the transitional period to the wet season, increased rainfall amounts make a slight comeback. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, is dominated by increased rainfall, which amounts to 44mm (1.73"), heralding the onset of the wet season. The low temperatures slightly rise to 11°C (51.8°F), offering a little more warmth than August's 10°C (50°F). Weather in September »
Weather in October
October's weather at Machu Picchu Peru sees a further rise in rainfall to 75mm (2.95"), a substantial increase from September's 44mm (1.73"). This signifies the continuing progression of the wet season. Throughout October, temperatures hover between highs of 25°C (77°F) and lows of 12°C (53.6°F). Weather in October »
Weather in November
November's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, is characterized by an escalation in rainfall, reaching 86mm (3.39"), which solidifies November's place in the heart of the wet season. Compared to October, the low temperatures experience a slight increase to 13°C (55.4°F), and the high temperatures continue to hover at 26°C (78.8°F). Weather in November »
Weather in December
December's weather in Machu Picchu, Peru, receives the maximum precipitation of 121mm (4.76"), making it the wettest month of the year. The temperatures remain at their highest, sticking to 26°C (78.8°F), while the lows remain constant at 13°C (55.4°F). Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Machu Picchu?
The coldest temperatures in Machu Picchu, Peru, occur during January, when averages reach a peak of 24°C (75.2°F) and a low of 13°C (55.4°F).
How much does it rain in Machu Picchu?
Throughout the year, there are 108 rainfall days, and 904mm (35.59") of precipitation is accumulated.
What are the months with the least sunshine in Machu Picchu?
The months with the least sunshine are January and February, with an average of 5h of sunshine.
When is the highest UV index in Machu Picchu?
January through April, August through December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the wettest month in Machu Picchu?
March is the month with the most rainfall in Machu Picchu. Rain falls for 13 days and accumulates 151mm (5.94") of precipitation.
What is the month with the most sunshine in Machu Picchu?
The months with the most sunshine in Machu Picchu are May through August, with an average of 8h of sunshine.
What is the driest month in Machu Picchu?
June is the month with the least rainfall in Machu Picchu. Rain falls for 2 days and accumulates 17mm (0.67") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Machu Picchu?
With an average of 11h and 24min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Machu Picchu, Peru.
When is the lowest UV index in Machu Picchu?
The months with the lowest UV index are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 10.
What are the warmest months in Machu Picchu?
The height of temperatures is seen during September, November and December, averaging a high-temperature of 26°C (78.8°F).
When are the longest days in Machu Picchu?
December has the longest days of the year in Machu Picchu, Peru, with an average of 12h and 54min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). -05 timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Machu Picchu, Peru
The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are September, November and December (26°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (24°C).
The months with the highest average low temperature are January, February, March, November and December (13°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are June and July (9°C).
Average rainfall
Machu Picchu, Peru
- Average rainfall in January:
138mm - Average rainfall in February:
141mm - Average rainfall in March:
151mm - Average rainfall in April:
62mm - Average rainfall in May:
23mm - Average rainfall in June:
17mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is March (151mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (17mm).
Average rainfall days
Machu Picchu, Peru
- Average rainfall days in January:
15 days - Average rainfall days in February:
20 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13 days - Average rainfall days in April:
9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is February (20 days).
The months with the least rainy days are June and July (2 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Machu Picchu, Peru
- Average daylight in January:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
11h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
12h and 5min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 12h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 11h and 24min).
The months with the most sunshine are May, June, July and August (Average sunshine: 8h).
The months with the least sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 5h).
Average UV index
Machu Picchu, Peru
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 12).
The months with the lowest UV index are June and July (UV index 10).
Machu Picchu, Peru
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