Cusco Weather by Month Guide: Temperatures, Rainfall Charts, and Festival Dates

When you start researching Cusco weather by month, you realize that planning a trip there isn’t as simple as picking a random date. At over 11,150 feet above sea level, the seasons narrow down to two: a dry season and a rainy season. Understanding how weather changes month by month makes the difference between a comfortable trek and a day spent soaking wet, especially if your trip also includes the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu.

Traveling to Cusco also requires coordinating advance reservations (lodging, train tickets, entrance passes), knowing the regulations at archaeological sites, anticipating difficult access during the rainy season, and considering extra costs for transportation or technical gear. When should you go? Which month offers the best weather in Cusco and fewer risks? Before locking in the rest of your plan, it also helps to review Acclimatization in Cusco and these top tourist attractions in Cusco.

Rain dancing on the window.

Sprouts facing the weather.

Quick Facts About Weather in Cusco

• Altitude: 11,152 feet above sea level (3,399 m)
• Seasons: Two — dry season (May to October) and rainy season (November to April)
• Average annual temperature: approximately 46°F (7.8°C)
• Daytime highs: between 66°F and 72°F (19°C and 22°C)
• Nighttime lows: between 32°F and 46°F (0°C and 8°C)
• Driest month: June (approximately 0.06 inches of precipitation)
• Rainiest month: January (approximately 5.7 inches)
• Average daylight hours: between 11 and 12.8 hours depending on the month

General Overview of Cusco Weather

In Cusco, the weather isn’t background—it’s the main character.”

Located at over 11,150 feet above sea level, Cusco isn’t just the ancient capital of the Inca Empire—it’s also a city where Andean weather dictates travelers’ rhythms. Traditional four-season patterns don’t exist here: the year divides into two major seasons that directly influence logistics, preparation, and the pace of any journey.

Altitude and Andean Climate

Cusco’s elevation means cold mornings, mild afternoons with intense sun, and temperatures that drop rapidly at night. Daily temperature variation can be considerable, requiring layered clothing, constant hydration, and proper acclimatization to minimize altitude sickness effects. During clear days, solar radiation is intense, making sun protection essential.

According to climate records, average high temperatures range between 66°F and 70°F (19°C and 21°C), while lows can drop near 32°F to 36°F (0°C to 2°C) during the coldest months. The warmest month by average high temperature is October (around 71°F / 21.7°C), and the coldest for average low temperatures is July, with nights that can drop to 29°F (-1.6°C) in normal climate records.

Dry Season (April to October)

This is many travelers’ favorite period. Skies are usually clear, rainfall is scarce, and landscape visibility is excellent. It’s the best time for treks like the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, or the Lares Trek, Inca Jungle trek, and for enjoying Machu Picchu without fog or mud obstacles.

Average temperatures:

• Between 41°F at dawn and 68°F during the day.
• During peak months (June-August), lows can approach 32°F (0°C).

What to pack:

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Light jacket or coat (for cold mornings and nights)
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing for sunny hours
• Gloves, hat, scarf, gaiters if you’re sensitive to cold at altitude
• Headlamp for sunrise or sunset activities

Sky watching daily life.

Toward the horizon.

Rainy Season (November to March)

Rains arrive with intensity, especially in January and February, which can affect some trekking routes. However, landscapes turn vibrant green and tourist crowds typically decrease. Some trails may close for safety, while visits planned around train access and clearer logistics to Machu Picchu often remain more manageable. If you are organizing that part of the trip, it helps to review How to Get to Machu Picchu.

Average temperatures:

• Between 44°F and 66°F, with high humidity.
• In daily average records, lows during this season can be between 41°F and 44°F and highs around 64-68°F.

What to pack:

• Poncho or waterproof jacket
• Footwear with good traction
• Waterproof covers for backpack and gear
• Change of clothes, ventilation
• Lightweight thermal garments for mornings

Silhouettes at nightfall.

Night emerging.

Cusco Weather by Month Table

Remember this:

Considering weather conditions isn’t just about packing right—it’s about anticipating how your body will feel, how the terrain will behave under your feet, and what kind of experience you’ll actually have.

Precipitation and Rainy Days

Cusco’s climate presents marked contrasts: from intense summer rains to clear winter skies. On average, the city receives 47 inches (1,200 mm) of rain annually.

Months with the most sun hours and least rainfall are May through September, ideal for trekking and photography.

Cusco Weather by Month

Cusco Weather in January

January marks the heart of Cusco’s rainy season. Mornings may start with blue skies, but by afternoon clouds gather quickly, giving way to heavy rains and frequent thunderstorms that often surprise travelers.

Humidity is high and terrain, especially in rural or mountain areas, can become muddy and slippery.

Blooming among ruins.

Colors and trails.

Average temperature: High: 64°F – Low: 45°F

• Feels cooler due to altitude, wind, and humidity.

Rainfall: Daily moderate to heavy rain, especially in afternoons. Thunderstorms aren’t unusual, particularly in high areas.

What to pack?

• Lightweight waterproof or poncho.
• Slip-resistant footwear.
• Quick-dry clothing.
• Backpack cover.
• Brimmed hat.

Recommended activities:

• Cultural tours in Cusco city.
• Museums.
• Nearby archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán.
• Machu Picchu visits with guide, prioritizing train over hikes.

Festivities of the month:

• Bajada de Reyes (January 6): This ceremony takes place in Cusco’s main square, with songs performed by various city choirs.

Did you know…?

Although January isn’t the favorite month for trekking, it’s an excellent time to see the greenest, most lush Andean landscapes of the year.

Cusco Weather in February

February continues the intensity of Cusco’s rainy season. Precipitation can be even more persistent than in January, and afternoons are often dominated by thunderstorms, densely clouded skies, and constant humidity felt on skin and in the air.

While landscapes are at their greenest, planning must be flexible and careful.

Tradition and spirit.

Colors and dances.

Average temperature: High: 64°F – Low: 45°F

• Humid thermal sensation and colder during rains, especially in high areas.

Rainfall: Very frequent, especially in afternoons. Thunderstorms with intense discharges in mountain zones. High possibility of landslides or preventive closures.

What to pack?

• Waterproof clothing.
• Trekking shoes.
• Backpack cover.
• Sunscreen.
• Hat.
• Additional dry change of clothes.

Recommended activities:

• Machu Picchu visits by train.
• Culinary tourism.
• Museums.
• Colonial temples.
• Accessible archaeological sites near Cusco.

Festivities of the month:

• Comadres Day: celebration on a Thursday before carnivals.
• Compadres Day: festivity celebrated two Thursdays before carnivals.
• Andean Carnivals: celebrated in Cusco and Sacred Valley communities with colorful parades, music, water and flour games. If you’re in the city during these dates, prepare to get wet.

Important note:

• In some rural areas, carnivals mix with ancestral agricultural rites. It’s a vibrant time to see living culture under the rain.
• During February, the Inca Trail closes for maintenance and access via Hidroeléctrica may be affected by rains or swelling rivers.

Cusco Weather in March

March is a transition month. Rains continue but gradually give way, especially toward month’s end. Skies begin opening more often, offering days with golden light between passing clouds.

Still, humidity persists and terrain conditions can remain challenging for those seeking outdoor adventures.

Mountains watching over the city.

Cusco’s domes to the sky.

Average temperature: High: 66°F – Low: 43°F

• Pleasant thermal sensation in sun, but still cool in mornings and nights, with moments of high humidity.

Rainfall: Frequent but less intense rain than in January and February. Thunderstorms diminish but can still appear. Paths may remain slippery or unstable.

What to pack?

• Rain layer or waterproof.
• Water-resistant boots.
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses.
• Dry change of clothes for return.

Recommended activities:

• Machu Picchu visits by train.
• City tours around Cusco.
• Cultural excursions through the Sacred Valley.

Festivities of the month:

• Holy Week (if it falls in March): solemn and colorful processions in Cusco, especially in the historic center. The date varies each year, but if it coincides, it’s a deeply spiritual and visual experience.

Did you know…?

March is ideal for those wanting to avoid crowds while still enjoying a greener, more humid Cusco, but without the weather chaos of previous months.

Cusco Weather in April

April marks the beginning of the dry season, bringing a palpable transformation in the atmosphere. Rainfall decreases dramatically, skies clear, and light begins revealing the sharp contours of the Andes.

It’s one of the year’s most balanced months: fields still retain their green hue thanks to recent moisture, but conditions for exploring improve noticeably.

Gardens among history.

Cusco extends across the hillside.

Average temperature: High: 68°F – Low: 41°F

• Warm thermal sensation in sun, but cold in mornings and nights. Clearer sky and dry air.

Rainfall: Occasional showers, generally light and sporadic, especially early in the month. Most days are dry and sunny.

What to pack?

• Windbreaker jacket.
• Light clothing for daytime.
• Sweater for afternoon.
• Cap or hat.
• Sunscreen.
• Comfortable shoes.

Recommended activities:

• Long hikes: Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares.
• Explore archaeological sites like Choquequirao.

Festivities of the month:

• Holy Week (if it falls in April): especially important in Cusco, with processions, flower carpets, and celebrations that fill the streets with living culture.
• Lord of Earthquakes Procession: Holy Week in Cusco has as its central day Holy Monday (the day after Palm Sunday), when the Patron Saint of Cusco, the Lord of Earthquakes, is carried in procession.

Did you know…?

April is considered the “golden month” by some photographers and travelers, thanks to the clean light that enhances landscapes and the calm before high season.

Cusco Weather in May

May in Cusco is a climatic gem: days are sunny, rainfall is almost nonexistent, and landscapes still retain a vibrant green tone after the wet season.

The sky is deep, clean blue, ideal for those dreaming of spectacular photos at Machu Picchu or from Andean peaks. It’s the perfect prelude to high season.

Dreaming in the distance.

Soft sun.

Average temperature: High: 70°F – Low: 37°F

• Warm thermal sensation under sun, but cold at dawn and night. Air is dry, so staying hydrated is key.

Rainfall: Very infrequent. Possibility of isolated drizzles or fog in high areas at dawn.

What to pack?

• Lightweight layered clothing.
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses.
• Hat for cold.
• Light jacket for cool afternoons.
• Water bottle always at hand.

Recommended activities:

• Multi-day treks: less-traveled routes like Huchuy Qosqo or Choquequirao.

Festivities of the month:

• Late May may see local celebrations preparing for Inti Raymi and Corpus Christi. There are also small patron saint festivals in rural communities.

Did you know…?

May is the favorite month of many guides and experienced travelers for its perfect balance of good weather, green landscapes, and still-quiet trails.

Cusco Weather in June

June is synonymous with intense sun, clear skies, and ancestral celebrations. It’s the official start of high tourism season, and for good reason: weather is dry, stable, and perfect for any outdoor activity.

However, nights can be cold or even freezing, especially in rural areas or at altitude.

Mantle of devotion.

Dance in the air.

Average temperature: High: 70°F – Low: 32°F

• Very warm thermal sensation under direct sun, but temperatures drop considerably as evening falls.

Rainfall: Almost nonexistent. Dry days with cold dawns and frequent frosts in elevated areas.

What to pack?

• Hat for cold.
• Thermal jacket for nights.
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses.
• Layered clothing.
• Water bottle.

Recommended activities:

• Everything: Long hikes, archaeological visits, photography, rural tourism, and Machu Picchu with excellent visibility.

Festivities of the month:

• Corpus Christi: one of Cusco’s most traditional celebrations, featuring the procession of 15 images of Saints from main churches, which leave their temples in procession toward Cusco’s cathedral.
• Inti Raymi (June 24): the most important sun festival on the Andean calendar. Ceremonies, dances, and reenactments unfold at Sacsayhuamán, the Qoricancha, and downtown Cusco. Book everything in advance!

Did you know…?

Inti Raymi revives Inca rituals honoring the winter solstice and draws thousands of visitors. It’s an unforgettable cultural and spiritual spectacle.

Cusco Weather in July

July is one of the coldest months of the year in Cusco, especially during early morning and night. However, days remain sunny and dry, with a seemingly endless blue sky.

It’s peak high season: tourists from around the world roam Cusco’s streets and paths to Machu Picchu, drawn by weather certainty and the majesty of Andean light.

Legacy in the clouds.

Sharing the miracle.

Average temperature: High: 68°F – Low: 30°F

• Very warm thermal sensation during the day under sun, but freezing at dawn and nightfall. Frosts are common.

Rainfall: Nonexistent. It’s one of the driest months of the year.

What to pack?

• Thermal jacket.
• Gloves.
• Wool hat.
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses.
• Lightweight layered clothing.
• Scarf for dust (due to air dryness).

Recommended activities:

• Multi-day hikes.
• Archaeological visits.
• Machu Picchu and photographic tourism.

Festivities of the month:

• National Holidays (July 28 and 29): celebrations for Peru’s independence. Parades, music in squares, and events throughout the city.

Did you know…?

July is the ideal month to see sunrise at Machu Picchu without fog.

Cusco Weather in August

August maintains the typical dry cold of the season, but with a very particular atmosphere: it’s the month of Pachamama, Mother Earth. Mornings remain cold and nights can approach freezing, but sun shines intensely during the day.

Landscapes appear golden and dry, and wind begins lifting dust in rural areas. It’s a spiritual month, ideal for those seeking not only natural beauty but also cultural connection.

Gratitude to the mountain.

Bond with the sacred.

Average temperature: High: 70°F – Low: 32°F

• Warm thermal sensation under sun, but dry, cold air at night. Wind can intensify in open areas.

Rainfall: Practically nonexistent. Some occasional dawn fog in elevated areas.

What to pack?

• Windbreaker jacket.
• Thermal clothing for nights.
• Sunscreen.
• Hat for sun and cold.
• Lip balm.
• Reusable water bottle.

Recommended activities:

• Perfect for Machu Picchu.
• Long treks like Salkantay or Choquequirao.
• Sunrise or sunset photography sessions.
• Community or spiritual tourism.

Festivities of the month:

• Pachamama Day (August 1): offerings, rituals, and thanks to the earth are performed in Andean communities, sacred hills, and homes. A unique experience if participated in respectfully with a guide.

Did you know…?

Many travelers choose August for Andean spiritual retreats or experiences in local communities. It’s a month full of symbolism and gratitude toward nature.

• August can bring strong winds, especially in high areas or during long hikes. Protect yourself from the sun and keep your backpack well secured.

Cusco Weather in September

September marks the start of transition between dry season and rainy season. Though days are still mostly sunny and sky remains clear, some changes begin appearing: slightly warmer temperatures, increased humidity, and occasional gray clouds crossing the sky.

Tourism drops slightly, making it an ideal month for those seeking quieter experiences.

Urban silhouettes under painted sky.

The sky speaks over the city.

Average temperature: High: 72°F – Low: 39°F

• Pleasant thermal sensation during day, with cool mornings and still-cold nights, but less intense than in July or August.

Rainfall: Still scarce, but sporadic drizzles may occur at dusk, especially toward month’s end. Occasional mountain fog.

What to pack?

• Layered clothing.
• Light waterproof jacket (just in case).
• Sunscreen.
• Sun hat.
• Sunglasses.
• Blanket for nights.

Recommended activities:

• Day hikes.
• Urban tourism.
• Archaeological visits.
• Machu Picchu (with fewer people than previous months).
• Cultural experiences in Andean villages.

Festivities of the month:

• Virgin of Nativity (September 8): celebrated in communities like Chinchero, with dances, masses, and traditional festivities. A good opportunity to see Andean religious syncretism.

Expert tip:

If crowds bother you, September is your month: weather remains favorable, but with less tourist traffic and more accessible prices.

Cusco Weather in October

October is a month of active transition. Earth begins moistening, first rains refresh valleys, and fields turn green. Though many sunny days remain, afternoons can surprise with brief but intense showers.

Temperature rises slightly, vegetation greens, and the atmosphere feels more alive and dynamic. If you like the feeling of a less dry, fresher Cusco full of contrasts, this is your month.

Reddish roofs under gray sky.

Window to the sacred.

Average temperature: High: 72°F – Low: 43°F

• Mild thermal sensation during day and cool at night. Rains can suddenly refresh the atmosphere.

Rainfall: Begin appearing more frequently in afternoons, especially in high or rural areas. Not constant yet, but being prepared is recommended.

What to pack?

• Waterproof jacket.
• Quick-dry clothing.
• Slip-resistant footwear.
• Sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.

Recommended activities:

• Tour the Sacred Valley.

Festivities of the month:

• Tanta Raymi or Bread Festival: celebrated in Oropesa, where numerous artisan bakers prepare bread varieties, adding personal details to exhibit them afterward.
• Though October isn’t very festive in Cusco, many communities celebrate local rituals tied to agricultural cycles with the arrival of rains. If you travel with a local agency or do experiential tourism, you might witness these intimate moments.

Did you know…?

In October, dawns may be covered with soft fog that dissipates with sun. Photos of Machu Picchu with low clouds are especially beautiful this month.

Cusco Weather in November

November is the transition month toward rainy season, but sunny days can still be enjoyed. Rains become more frequent and prolonged but are intermittent, especially in afternoons and nights.

Vegetation prepares for the green explosion, and fresh air gives way to characteristic seasonal humidity. This month is ideal for those seeking a less hectic Cusco, but with the risk of more variable weather.

Cusco under artificial light.

Walks at sunrise.

Average temperature: High: 70°F – Low: 45°F

• Warmer thermal sensation during day, but rains and humidity can make nights feel colder.

Rainfall: Frequent afternoon rains, though not as intense as in December or January. Sometimes it rains overnight and paths can become muddy by day’s end.

What to pack?

• Waterproof.
• Water-resistant trekking boots.
• Sunscreen.
• Lightweight backpack with rain protection.
• Quick-dry clothing.
• Insect repellent.

Recommended activities:

• Explore the Sacred Valley (though long hikes may be interrupted by rains).

Festivities of the month:

• All Saints’ Day (November 1): Though a more intimate festivity, many families visit cemeteries and make offerings. If you travel through villages, you can witness this tradition connecting with ancestral Andean culture.
• Tribute to Tupac Amaru (November 4): with participation from Cusco schools, armed forces, and main regional authorities, the ceremony honors the first man to drive indigenous rebellion through poetry, dances, and flower arrangements.

Did you know…?

During November, rains generally don’t last all day, so you’ll enjoy sun between storms. It’s a good month for those who don’t mind a little rain while exploring Cusco’s corners.

Cusco Weather in December

December marks the start of rainy season, and Cusco is no exception. Rains are more constant and heavy, especially in afternoon and night.

Though days remain relatively warm, rains can be intense, transforming the landscape into something greener, fresher, and more vibrant. While it’s a month with more precipitation, it’s also full of traditions and festivities, making the visit worthwhile.

The city emerging.

Vibrant heart at dusk.

Average temperature: High: 68°F – Low: 48°F

• Pleasant but cool thermal sensation from rain. Nights can be cold and humid, so bringing warm clothing for evenings is recommended.

Rainfall: Rains are more frequent and heavy in afternoon, with possible thunderstorms. Paths can become slippery and some routes may temporarily close due to landslides.

What to pack?

• Waterproof.
• Water-resistant boots.
• Thermal clothing.
• Additional rain layer.
• Sunscreen.
• Gloves (if very cold).
• Hat or cap.

Recommended activities:

• Enjoy local festivities, tour Cusco’s plazas, and don’t miss the vibrant nightlife and markets.

Festivities of the month:

• Santurantikuy (December 24): fair that in Spanish means “buy me a little saint,” held on Christmas Eve, concentrating population from different Andean provinces and Cusco artisans.
• Christmas in Cusco (December 24–25): One of the most important celebrations. In streets, especially in the Main Square, Christmas Eve representations and traditional parades can be seen. In nearby villages, masses and processions are also celebrated.
• Virgin of Candelaria (December 8): Religious festivities are celebrated in the Sacred Valley and other nearby villages, with dances and typical Andean rituals.

Did you know…?

• If you’re trekking, like the Inca Trail or Salkantay, keep in mind that rains can make paths more slippery and difficult. Bring waterproof gear and prepare for humidity!
• Christmas celebrations in Cusco are unique, combining European traditions with Andean ones. Plus, if you dare, the city fills with beautiful lights and decorations during the holidays.

What’s the Best Month to Visit Cusco?

The best month to visit Cusco depends on what you’re seeking, but generally, May, June, and September are ideal. During these months, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance between pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds.

• May and June offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and dry landscapes, perfect for trekking, especially if you plan to visit Machu Picchu or undertake routes like the Inca Trail. These months are just before the crowds of peak high season begin, so you’ll enjoy a quieter Cusco.
• September is an excellent choice if you prefer avoiding crowds and enjoying a more relaxed city, though with some humidity that doesn’t interrupt activities more than brief rains.

A haven of light.

Life goes on.

What Cusco Offers

In Cusco it rains and blooms, the sun burns and cold winds blow; understanding Andean weather should be a key factor in your planning so you can enjoy its landscapes with the wonder they deserve.

From Inkayni Peru Tours, we know that each season will reveal a new face of Peru’s heart. With proper preparation, your visit will be unforgettable, whether under an infinite blue sky or among rains that perfume the earth.

Ready to discover Cusco at its best moment?

Infinite Andes.

Flowers at the edge of the past.

Frequently Asked Questions