Inca Trail Weather: What to Expect Month by Month (+ Best Time to Hike)

If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail, understanding the weather is just as important as choosing your dates or booking your permits. The trail crosses several altitudes and ecosystems, which means you’ll experience everything from icy winds at high passes to warm, subtropical air near Machu Picchu.

In my own hikes, the biggest surprise was how the weather can shift dramatically within hours—sunny skies, misty cloud forest, and cold winds all in one day.

Below is the most complete, practical guide to Inca Trail weather: dry season, rainy season, microclimates, month-by-month conditions, and what you actually need to pack.

What the Weather Is Really Like on the Inca Trail

Why Weather Changes So Quickly (Altitude + Microclimates)

The Inca Trail spans several climate zones—from Andean highlands above 4,200 m (13,800 ft) to the subtropical valleys near Machu Picchu.
This creates:

• Fast temperature swings
• High UV radiation at altitude
• Sudden fog or showers
• Humid sections in cloud forest

When I first hiked it, I remember climbing toward Dead Woman’s Pass and feeling the temperature drop fast, even though the morning had started warm.

How Cold It Gets at Night on the Trail

Nights can drop below freezing in the high zone (especially May–August). Campsites before Dead Woman’s Pass are the coldest.
It’s normal to go from 20°C (68°F) during the day to 0°C (32°F) at night.

During my hike, one night easily dipped below zero—inside the tent you could feel the cold seeping through the sleeping bag.

Sun, Wind & Sudden Rain: Daily Weather Patterns

Regardless of the month:

• Mornings tend to be colder but clearer
• Noon brings intense sun due to altitude
• Afternoons can bring quick showers (even in dry season)
• Cloud forest areas stay humid year-round

Dry Season (April–October): Clear Skies, Cold Nights & Best Views

Temperatures and Conditions During Dry Months

• Day: 59–72°F (15–22°C)
• Night: 28–41°F (-2–5°C)
• Rain: Low
• Visibility: Excellent

Dry season is when the classic, bright-blue-sky photos are taken.

Pros for Hikers

• Clear views of the Andes
• Cold but stable weather
• Perfect photography conditions
• Low humidity

When I went in dry season, the views were so sharp it felt like walking inside a documentary.

Challenges You Should Still Prepare For

• Intense UV radiation
• Very cold nights
• Dust on the trail
• High demand for permits

Rainy Season (November–March): Warm Days, Muddy Trails & Heavy Showers

What Hiking Feels Like in the Wet Months

Expect:

• High humidity
• Afternoon showers
• Muddy and slippery paths
• Clouds covering high viewpoints

I’ve tried hiking in rainy season, and yes—the trail gets slippery and requires more caution, especially on ancient stone steps.

Why the Inca Trail Closes in February

Because February has the heaviest rain and maintenance work is performed annually.
Alternative treks (Short Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares) remain open.

Advantages of the Rainy Season

• Lush, green landscapes
• Fewer tourists
• Larger availability of permits
• Warmer nights

Inca Trail Weather by Altitude: High, Middle and Low Zones

High Zone (Up to Dead Woman’s Pass): Freezing Nights, Strong Winds

• Day: 41–59°F (5–15°C)
• Night: 23–32°F (-5–0°C)
• Weather: Clear, windy in dry season; rain/hail possible in wet season

This is where I personally felt the coldest temperatures of the entire trail.

Middle Zone (Cloud Forest): Humidity, Fog and Quick Changes

• Day: 50–68°F (10–20°C)
• Constant humidity
• Frequent fog in rainy season

Low Zone (Near Machu Picchu): Subtropical Warmth

• Day: 64–82°F (18–28°C)
• Nights: 46–64°F (8–18°C)
• Weather: Warm, humid, occasional showers

Inca Trail Weather by Month (January–December)

(Data synthesized from historical patterns + top-3 competitors)

January – Heavy Rain, Warm Days

High rain, slippery stones, occasional sun, warm nights.

February – Trail Closed

Peak rainfall; maintenance month.

March – End of Heavy Rains

Still humid, more sun breaks.

April – Transition to Dry Season

Greener landscapes, mild weather.

May – Start of Peak Trekking Season

Dry paths, cold nights, superb visibility.

June – Dry, Crisp, Cold Nights

One of the best months; clear skies.

July – Coldest Month of the Year

Dry, perfect for photos; freezing nights.

August – Stable Weather, Clear Views

Cold mornings, sunny days.

September – Mild Weather, Fewer Crowds

Great balance of conditions.

October – Warm Days, Light Showers

Transition toward rainy season.

November – Start of Rainy Season

Warm, humid, increasing rain.

December – Green, Wet, Warm

Frequent showers; lush scenery.

Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail (Based on Weather + Trail Conditions)

Best Months for Clear Views

June, July, August

Best Months for Fewer Tourists

April, September, October

Best Months for Comfort and Safety

May & September

Worst Months for Hiking

January, February, March (due to heavy rains and closure in February)

Packing for the Inca Trail According to the Weather

Layering System for Fast Climate Changes

A 3-layer system is essential because the temperature can jump dramatically throughout the day.
One thing I learned quickly: layers save your life on this trail.

What to Wear for Rainy Season

• Waterproof jacket & poncho
• Quick-dry pants
• Waterproof boots
• Dry bag for gear

What to Wear for Dry Season

• UV-protective clothing
• Warm night layers
• Light windbreaker

Weather-Proof Gear You Should Not Skip

• Sunscreen 50+
• Trekking poles
• Rain cover for backpack
• Hat & gloves

How Inca Trail Weather Affects Travel Logistics

Flight Delays in Cusco Due to Rain

Heavy rain can delay flights, especially December–March.

Trail Conditions and Safety Tips

• In rainy season: slippery stones, slower pace
• In dry season: altitude + temperature swings

When to Book Permits Based on Weather Trends

• For peak weather (June–August): book 6 months early
• For good weather + fewer crowds: April, May, September