Machu Picchu Weather in April

April is here, and the dry season begins in the Andean region, and yes, also in Machu Picchu. So, the weather in April is relatively mild and pleasant, making it the ideal time to visit the stone ruins. During the day, they vary between 18 °C and 22 °C (64 °F and 72 °F). At night, they can drop considerably to 10 °C (50 °F). April is the transition month between both seasons, so there may still be rain, but less frequent and intense than in previous months. Only in the morning hours could there be some occasional rain. Nothing to worry about! 

Why visit Machu Picchu in April?

Pros

• Fewer people: April is yet to be high season, so the number of people you will find is few compared to the ones in high season. So, with fewer people on the trails and paths leading to Machu Picchu, you will be able to enjoy your tour of the ruins more calmly, and you will have no obstacles in sight when taking your photos.
• A new landscape: The rainy season leaves behind dazzling green vegetation that is about to become a beautiful spring background, ideal for your photos.
• Temperate climate: As the climate changes from cold to temperate, all the conditions of the trails improve, and hiking and outdoor activities become more pleasant.
• Affordability: the low season will always have the appeal of low prices for accommodation, tours, and flight offers.

Cons

• Unpredictable rain: Yes, unfortunately, in April, the rains are still in progress and can surprise you on one of your walks through Machu Picchu. That's why we recommend you come prepared to deal with a radical change in the weather.
• Limited access to trails: Since April is the transition month between the wet and dry seasons, this time is often used to improve the trails or recover them from any damage caused by the rains, so make sure they are not closed for maintenance.

Best time of day

Visiting Machu Picchu in April and choose the best time of day for you:

• Morning: At this time of day, tourists love to be at Machu Picchu to capture the amazing sunrise with their lenses. However, it requires a lot of patience to get the best photo because fog also likes to appear at this time. Don't worry; just be patient and wait for it to dissipate. You will be rewarded!
• Midday: At this time of day, the fog improves considerably, but it is the arrival time of many hikers, so you must weigh what time works best for you.
• Afternoon: This is the time when all the stars align, and you can get everything you need, except people, because most have already left. The fog has dissipated to the point that you can glimpse the clear light that falls on the ruins. Take advantage and take your best photos!

Plan your trip to Machu Picchu in April

We know that planning your trip to Machu Picchu is not easy because you need help with logistics, especially during April when the weather can be changeable, so here is everything you need to know about:

Tickets and tours: how far in advance to book Machu Picchu

It is important to emphasize that there is a limited capacity of visitors per day, and tickets can sell out quickly, especially in high season. 

Tickets

You must purchase them well in advance. We usually recommend a minimum of two to three months to reserve tickets to Machu Picchu. It may seem like an exaggeration to do it so quickly, but the truth is that due to the limited capacity of tickets for some trails, it is essential to anticipate as soon as possible.

Tours

On the other hand, if you want to relax and be guided through each archaeological site or walk in Machu Picchu, then book a guided tour. This may be included in your tour package; make sure it is. Take advantage of the discounts and offers that usually come in April.

Train tickets

If you don't want to walk but just want to contemplate the panoramic views, then book a ticket to travel by train to Machu Picchu from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Again, do it in advance and choose what kind of train you want to go on.

What to bring

You are preparing for your trip to Machu Picchu in April, but you undoubtedly have doubts about what to do, how to dress, and what to bring. Do not worry anymore. We will give you valuable information so that you can organize your trip without any problem. Pay attention to the following list that we give you to guide you:

• Waterproof jacket or poncho: Although the rains in April are no longer so frequent, sudden showers are still possible. Be prepared to face any shower that may occur.
• Layers: Layering clothes is the best way to condition yourself according to the weather's fluctuation. For example, wear a wool sweater or a fleece jacket and carry a rain poncho in your backpack. These are just some options.
• Appropriate shoes for hiking: Yes, they cannot be any sports shoes. The ideal shoes must be suitable for hiking because they prevent falls or slips. Make sure they have a good grip.
• Sun protection: Protect yourself from the intense, radiant sun that lives in Machu Picchu. Because of its altitude, you will feel the sun soaking into your bones.
• Recyclable bottle: The advantage of using a glass or stainless steel bottle is that you can fill it as many times as necessary and not generate waste.

What to expect

Although April has already begun to see a more significant influx of travelers, it is still less visited compared to the months of the high season, but if your visit coincides with the Easter celebrations, be prepared because it is a prevalent celebration and attracts quite a few people. April brings landscapes of exuberant beauty with colorful flowers and deep green mountains. In the same way, important cultural events occur this month, not only in Cusco but throughout Peru. 

The Best Machu Picchu Tours in April

To get to Machu Picchu, you have different options that you can choose according to what best suits you. Whether you are in good physical condition and want to take long walks or, on the contrary, the mere idea of ​​hiking tires you out, you have three options, and here we show you which ones they are; choose wisely!

4-day hike through Lares

The 4-day hike through Lares is the option you are looking for if you like to be in uncrowded places if you want to immerse yourself in the culture of those who were the inhabitants of Machu Picchu, or if you want to get to know yourself the villages and Indigenous towns that inhabit the surroundings of the citadel. In short, if all of this that we name here resonates with you, this is your path. Choose it!

• Day 1: Your tour begins with amazing views from Cusco to the Lares Valley and continues to the first camp, which is very close to the hot springs.
• Day 2: You will travel along mountain roads full of color and magic, with high-altitude sections that allow you to contemplate the snowy peaks.
• Day 3: This day will surely be the one you will remember the most because you will see traditional Andean villages, and you will want to immerse yourself in their customs and traditions. You will also visit local weavers and farmers in their daily trades.
• Day 4: The long-awaited day arrives. Breathe deeply because you are at the gates of Machu Picchu. Indeed, a guide will be waiting for you to show you the ruins and tell you its history.

Machu Picchu 1 day by train

Traveling by train is the option you need if you are in a hurry because you came to Peru to visit Machu Picchu, but you must leave as soon as possible. Well, this is what awaits you on your train trip:

• Early in the morning: Start your journey aboard the train you have chosen. There are different types of trains, but they all depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town that houses Machu Picchu
• Morning: You will arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning, and your guided tour will begin there. You will explore the terraces, temples, and other essential buildings.
• Afternoon: After you finish your visit, you are ready to return to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can take a break, have a typical Andean lunch, and then take the train back to Cusco.

Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is the most famous trekking route to Machu Picchu. It offers a challenging yet rewarding journey through ancient Inca paths. This four-day trek is ideal for those seeking adventure and wanting to experience the trail's historical significance.

• Day 1: Begin your trek at km 82, walking through the Sacred Valley and camping near Wayllabamba.
• Day 2: This is the most challenging day, as you'll ascend to Dead Woman's Pass, the highest point on the trail.
• Day 3: Explore ancient ruins along the trail, including Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna, before camping for the night.
• Day 4: Arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise, where you'll have your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. After a guided tour, you'll have free time to explore the site on your own.

What to do in Peru in April?

April in Peru is a month full of many festivities, especially religious ones, where the mixture of indigenous traditions with Christian rituals is shown in their maximum splendor. We will give you a little tour so that you can stay and celebrate with us:

Holy Week

Catholicism is the predominant religion in Peru, so Holy Week is a very important holiday for all Catholics. With traditional ceremonies, masses, and processions, this important date is celebrated for a whole week. It is also a time of deep devotion to everything spiritual. So you can enjoy the colors, traditions, and typical foods for this event, especially on Holy Friday and Holy Sunday.

Feast of the Lord of Quyllurit'i

At the end of April or beginning of May in Cusco, is celebrated the feast of the Señor Quyllurit'i, which mixes typical Andean traditions with religious processions. In this event, the companions walk to the Sinakara valley, next to the foot of the Ausangate mountain. Once there, they honor the Lord of Quyllurit'i with music, offerings, and traditional dances, which attest to the deep connection with the Andean gods and nature.

Anniversary of the Foundation of Ica

On April 17, the foundation of Ica is celebrated with typical music from the area, parades, dances, and local cuisine. In addition to this, the celebrations are held with civic ceremonies, where the multicolored parades, the exhibition of pisco and wines, and typical drinks of the culture of Ica stand out.

Anniversary of the Foundation of Abancay

In the Apurímac region, the anniversary of the founding of the city of Abancay is celebrated on April 29 with traditional dances, parades, and other cultural events that exhibit the region's heritage.

As you can see, Peru is a very active country in the religious and spiritual sphere in April, so it has a lot of cultural potential to offer on this date.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting Machu Picchu in April:

Exploring Machu Picchu in April offers a unique and memorable experience. With pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds, it's an ideal time to visit this ancient wonder. Whether you're trekking the Inca Trail, enjoying a train journey, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Machu Picchu in April promises to be a trip of a lifetime.