8 Reasons Why Spring Is The Best Time To Visit Machu Picchu

Sarah Rand
·6 min read
These are the 8 to reasons that spring is the best time to visit Machu Picchu. pictured: Machu Picchu
These are the 8 to reasons that spring is the best time to visit Machu Picchu. pictured: Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a citadel that sits high up in the Andes Mountains. It has been around since the 15th century. It is a mystery to scientists and even locals. Much of the appeal for travelers to visit the site comes from the worldwide interest in its roots.

The panoramic views of this magical destination are even more enjoyable during spring. Spring is one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu for many reasons. Travelers should check out what to look for during their upcoming spring trip to the “Lost City of the Incas.”

Average Temperature This Time of Year

  • 55-75 Degrees F

Weather

The weather in Peru varies quite a lot. This is especially true since the dry and wet seasons are typically how locals organize the weather conditions of the country. The dry season, which takes up much of what others consider spring, typically runs from May to November. This is a significant time for visitors to note since the rainy season can make the New Wonder of the World site slippery. Around May travelers can enjoy clearer skies, which is great since the region can get quite foggy in the rainy season.

The weather is the top reason that spring is the best time to visit Machu Picchu. pictured: Machu Picchu on a foggy day
Photo credit: Alan Hurt Jr.

Travel Tip:

  • There are warm temperatures in spring near Machu Picchu, so travelers should wear appropriate clothing and pack bug spray.

Architectural Gems

This architectural phenomenon has attracted tourists from all over the world. It is renowned for its seamless integration of the natural landscape. People are often in awe of Machu Picchu since it has such a high elevation. The precision that ancient Incas achieved is truly impressive since they did not have the same tools as today. The technique used to create Machu Picchu was advanced for the time and is called ashlar masonry. This technique does not use mortar and was used to make the various buildings and walls that travelers can still view today.

Travelers should see the architectural splendor of this Incan site during the best time to visit Machu Picchu. pictured: Machu Picchu
Photo credit: Tom D’Arby

Travel Tip:

  • Although photos are not discouraged at this architectural wonder, travelers can not enter Machu Picchu with drones or camera tripods.

Hiking

Machu Picchu is a great place to visit during spring due to the agreeable temperatures. Hikers do not have to deal with the warm sun in spring as much. Travelers who plan to hike should visit Machu Picchu around April or May. The trails to get to the summit of Machu Picchu are not easy. This hiking adventure is best for travelers who consider themselves relatively fit and do not mind the 26-28-mile adventure.

Many hikers enjoy visiting Machu Picchu in the springtime. pictured: the steps of Machu Picchu
Photo credit: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Travel Tip:

  • Travelers who hike Machu Picchu need to stay hydrated and fed since the hike can get tiring. Sunscreen, snacks, bug spray, and altitude medication are all recommended.

Animal Sightings

The animal sightings at Machu Picchu are a big part of why the site has gained so much popularity. Although there are technically many animals surrounding and in Machu Picchu, one has gained the world’s admiration. The most iconic animal sighting is the Peruvian llama. The best part is they are indigenous to the Andes so they are quite comfortable at every altitude level. Many llamas at Machu Picchu will even pose for photos with tourists.

Learn why spring is one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu. pictured: Machu Picchu with a llama gazing
Photo credit: Kenny Alexis Sánchez Villalobos

Travel Tip:

  • Llamas are typically friendly and peaceful and the ones at Machu Picchu are used to seeing people. However, if they feel threatened by tourists they may project a gnarly spit at them, so be respectful of their home.

Historical Significance

Historians believe that Machu Picchu was built at the height of the Incan Empire. It is particularly significant because of its artistic, architectural, and cultural achievements. Machu Picchu is the most tangible site for the legacy of the Inca civilization. The site was built around 1450 AD, and in 2007, it was named one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In 1983, it was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a landmark, it has given historians and archaeologists significant intel about ancient civilizations.

pictured: a wall in Machu Picchu
Photo credit: Maria Pinto

Travel Tip:

  • Many modern archaeologists believe Machu Picchu was a royal estate for Incan emperors and nobles. Visiting travelers enjoy looking to collect clues and determine what they thought the site was intended for. However, visitors should not mess with the remnants of this ancient civilization.

Peru’s Culture

Much of Peru’s culture can be observed while journeying to Machu Picchu but the site is not all there is to see. If travelers have time for an extended stay, their experience will be even better. Travelers can take multiple-day tours around Peru that include a visit to Machu Picchu to further immerse themselves in the local culture.

Some tours even include culinary aspects. Local delicacies include ceviche, lomo saltado, Cuy al horno (guinea pig), and anticuchos. The locals are known for being kind and knowledgeable about their country, so travelers are encouraged to enjoy a more interactive cultural experience.

a Peruvian woman and two llamas
Photo credit: Saraí Carrasco

Travel Tip:

  • Aguas Calientes is the closest town to Machu Picchu and the top-rated place to stay. Staying there during a visit to the archaeological site may help travelers make local connections and understand more about Peru.

Spiritual Healing

Some historians believe that Machu Picchu served solely as a spiritual place for the Incas, especially because of its high elevation. Regardless of other ideas about the site, it certainly has served as a sacred space. Many visitors to Machu Picchu even rave that they had a moving spiritual experience while they were there. Its remote location and tranquil ambiance are likely the cause of such a significant experience for so many people. Some travelers say that making it up to Machu Picchu felt inspirational in their lives. There is no telling what positive impact visiting this sacred space may have for travelers. However, spring serves as a renewal period which makes it one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu.

The spiritual significance of Machu Picchu is a great reason to visit. pictured: Machu Picchu
Photo credit: Gilmer Diaz Estela

Travel Tip:

  • Many wellness experiences based in Machu Picchu for travelers are focused on having a spiritual experience. Popular options include yoga and meditation classes.

A Whirlwind and Novelty Adventure

Since Machu Picchu is a more remote destination, it does take some work to arrive there. Luckily for travelers, this journey is best taken during the springtime. Since there is less rain and fog, the terrain is easier to navigate. One of the easiest ways to get to Machu Picchu is by taking a train from Cusco, a nearby town. Then travelers can take a bus to the ruins’ entrance and hike from there. Otherwise, travelers will need to embark on a strenuous walk from Aguas Calientes which would take about an hour and a half or two hours.

The novelty of seeing Machu Picchu is a great reason to visit in spring. pictured: Machu Picchu
Photo credit: Federico Scarionati

Travel Tip:

  • Travelers who want to follow in the footsteps of the Incas can take the classic Inca trail, but they should be physically prepared for the ascent.

Although many travelers go to Peru just for Machu Picchu, there is much to explore. However, springtime allows travelers to get to the site much more comfortably.