Is December a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

December is a month worth considering if you have fixed travel dates, enjoy scenic green mountain views, or want to experience both Machu Picchu and Christmas in Cusco. Be prepared for the possibility of experiencing both rain and brief moments of clear skies.

Think carefully about whether your primary goal is to capture unobstructed panoramic photographs or to embark on a lengthy trek in relatively dry conditions. Low clouds can obscure the mountains, and wet stone steps may require extra caution. A visit during the dry season can lower the chances of rain, but no month can guarantee completely clear weather.

The weather in Machu Picchu in December

The rainy season has already begun, so you should keep in mind that there will be some precipitation. Despite this, December in Machu Picchu is characterized as a temperate climate. The temperature, depending on the time of day, has a drop of 8 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 17.

December falls within the rainy season in Machu Picchu. Expect showers, damp paths, and changing cloud cover, with possible dry breaks during the day. Rain can arrive at different times, so carry protection even if the morning starts clear.

Why visit Machu Picchu in December?

As in any other month of the year, visiting Machu Picchu is a unique and unforgettable experience. Its air of mystery, sacredness, and long and curious history is always impressive and inspires wonder, calm, and contemplation.

Given the weather conditions of this month in which you have decided to visit it, it is of great interest for your plans that you take into account the following:

Pros

• Because the rains are already beginning, the number of visitors decreases.
• Yes, on December 21, the day of the summer solstice in the southern hemisphere of the planet, you can be able to contemplate how the sunlight passes through the window of the Temple of the Sun. A somewhat brief event that says a lot about the Inca civilization. This will depend on the cloud cover for the day.
• In this month the flowering of some plants begins, such as orchids and lilies, in the surroundings of Machu Picchu and the landscape in general is of a more intense green.
• And if you are one of those who enjoy the rain, you will have a few hours to give it to you.

Cons

• In the early morning hours, the cloud cover can be very thick, and visibility is poor.
• Some paths are likely to be flooded.
• Due to rain, the trails are often slippery, and you should be more careful when climbing the steeper ones.
• There are mosquitoes that can be pretty annoying.

The best time of day to visit Machu Picchu

In this month, the best hours of the day to visit Machu Picchu are from 9 am to early afternoon. Before that time, the fog was still very thick, and it was very likely to rain in the afternoons.

What happens if it rains on my visit?

Bring your rain gear and follow the staff's instructions. Wet weather does not automatically mean that the site will close, but heavy rain or other conditions can affect access and transport. Check official notices and messages from your operator close to departure.

If a delay affects your plans, contact the relevant operator promptly. Do not assume an entry ticket can be moved, refunded or reused on another day. Train, hotel, tour and admission conditions may differ, so read each set of terms when you book.

When your wider itinerary allows it, leave some time between returning to Cusco and an onward flight or another fixed commitment. That extra space can make an unexpected delay easier to manage.

Should you travel by train or hike in December?

Getting to Machu Picchu by train

A typical itinerary to visit Machu Picchu involves traveling by road to Ollantaytambo, taking a train to Aguas Calientes, and then using a bus to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu. It's important to note that different train departures and bimodal services (which combine bus and train operated by the same train company from Cusco) may use different stations. Therefore, always refer to the details provided in your booking instead of assuming that every trip starts from the same location.

If you prefer fewer connections on the day of your visit to the Inca citadel, consider a two-day itinerary that includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, the modern town situated at the foot of Machu Picchu. Be sure to check the return train schedule before opting for a late entry to the citadel or planning a mountain hike, such as Huayna Picchu. Additionally, allow enough time to descend from the Inca site to Aguas Calientes, where the train station is located.

Hiking the Inca Trail in December

The Inca Trail typically operates in December, with its regular annual maintenance closure occurring in February. However, temporary restrictions may take place at other times of the year. To ensure a smooth experience, book through an authorized tour operator and confirm your Inca Trail permits for the dates you intend to travel.

Remember that the Inca Trail is a regulated route by the Peruvian Government. The state requires hiring an authorized travel agency to do the Inca Trail. You can't hike the Inca Trail on your own.

Be prepared for wet and muddy conditions along the trail and expect rain at campsites. It’s important to ask your operator how they will protect your belongings from moisture, what clothing and equipment you should bring, and how they plan to adjust the itinerary if weather conditions change. While a shorter itinerary may seem appealing, it can still involve a challenging climb, so focus on comparing the walking distances rather than just the number of days.

Other treks, such as the Lares trek and other highland routes, have their own unique conditions and transfer arrangements. These should not be viewed as interchangeable with the Inca Trail, as not all of them lead directly into Machu Picchu.

Plan your trip to Machu Picchu in December

Any tourist experience or trip must be planned well in advance. This means that you must take into account the cost of each of the routes you have decided to take, the weather conditions, and the most appropriate type of clothing for that season.

Tickets and tours: How far in advance should you book?

We recommend that you book your Machu Picchu tickets at least 4 months in advance, since these sell out very quickly and the citadel has a strict limit on the number of visitors per day. You can visit the official Machu Picchu ticket website to purchase your tickets directly.

In the same way, we recommend you book train tickets to Machu Picchu three months in advance to avoid any inconvenience. During December, many people from the country go to Cusco, and quite a few go to Machu Picchu.

Remember that depending on the time you plan to visit, some of them, especially during the most favorable hours due to the weather, tend to sell out quickly because demand is greater at those times of the day.

What to pack

This is an essential aspect of your travel plan because doing it properly will make your experience much more pleasant, mainly due to the circumstances we have mentioned in advance regarding the season and its weather conditions.

• Your original passport or the identity document used for your booking.
• Entry and transport tickets saved where you can access them easily.
• A waterproof jacket or poncho that also protects your small backpack.
• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip on wet stone.
• Light layers and clothing that dries quickly.
• A waterproof pouch or dry bag for your phone, camera, and documents.
• A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent in a permitted container.
• A reusable water bottle and any personal essentials you need during the visit.

The official visitor code limits backpacks to 40 × 35 × 20 cm and prohibits umbrellas, food and several types of equipment. Check the current rules before packing. While trekking poles are useful on the Inca Trail, they are not strictly necessary to pack for a visit to Machu Picchu; if you do choose to bring them, ensure they have rubber tips to avoid damaging the site's stones. If you need a mobility aid, confirm the arrangements in advance.

Leave large luggage at your accommodation or an arranged storage point. For a multi-day trek, use the operator's separate packing list; this short checklist covers the visit to the archaeological site.

Will clouds hide Machu Picchu?

They can. Mist may cover the ruins or the surrounding peaks, but it often moves away during your visit. Generally, the sky tends to clear up from 9 a.m. until early afternoon, although the mist may linger for longer. Be sure to bring a waterproof pouch for your phone or camera, and take the time to appreciate details like the stonework and terraces while the wider view changes.

Regardless of the weather conditions, the feelings and experiences you gain in this unique place, rich in historical significance and distinct in its location—will always leave a lasting impact.

The best tours to Machu Picchu

According to your particular interest, your plans and the characteristics of what seems best for your preference, you can choose between the various plans that are offered to you. It depends on the time you have for it, your financial possibilities and the distances you prefer to travel.

Lares trek

This is a walking tour in which you will be able to appreciate along the way the crafts of that region and the splendid work of the farmers. During the Lares trek 4 days to Machu Picchu, you will be able to walk along a path that allows you to appreciate the fauna, flora and sacredness that beautifies and enhances the landscape of this area of ​​Peru.

Machu Picchu one day by train

The Machu Picchu tour by train full-day includes transfer from the hotel where you are staying to the train station that will take you along a railway route where you will see impressive landscapes to Ollantaytambo, where you will take another train that will take you to Aguas Calientes and from there the bus to Machu Picchu.

In total it is a journey of 14 to 16 hours, but always with the best guides with the best attention and very timely information.

Inca Trail

For those who appreciate and enjoy life outdoors on their own, walking and exercising physically, this path that links Cusco with Machu Picchu is one of the best alternatives available to you. The classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is almost 40 kilometers long and will take you an average of 4 days and three nights to travel. On your way, you will have the opportunity to visit Phuyupatamarca, Runkurakay, and Sayacmarca, among other cities. It is worth saying that they add to your close knowledge of this privileged space.

What to do in Peru in December?

Due to diverse Peru tourist attractions and its lengthy historical past, the Andean country is an excellent alternative for any traveler eager to discover the world. During almost the entire year, there are festivities and something to celebrate, whether it be for traditions dating back many centuries or for its natural, historical, and gastronomic attractions. In December, the most popular celebrations are:

Santa Barbara

This is a religious festival celebrated every December 4th, particularly in the rural and mining areas of Cusco, featuring masses, fireworks, and the blessing of tools.

Immaculate Conception

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated on December 8th in Cusco, honoring the Virgin Mary with great devotion. The festivities include a procession of the Virgin through the historic streets, accompanied by traditional music from sikus and panpipes, as well as colorful folkloric dances. During the celebration, locals and visitors can enjoy craft fairs and taste regional dishes, blending faith with the rich cultural heritage of the Andes.

The Feast of the Virgin of the Door.

From the 13th to the 16th, the Feast of the Virgin of the Door. The Marian devotion of Our Lady of the Gate has its main sanctuary in the city of Otuzco, which is located about 75 km northeast of Trujillo in the La Libertad Region. In 1942, Pope Pius XII granted someone the honorary title of “Queen of Universal Peace.” During his apostolic visit to Trujillo on January 20, 2018, Pope Francis proclaimed her “Mother of Mercy and Hope.” She has been designated as “Guardian of the bicentennial of the emancipation of Peru.”

Celebration of the birth of the Child Jesus.

Every December 25th, all the cities in Peru celebrate Christmas with great joy. At midnight, the fireworks not only announce the birth of the Child Jesus but also symbolize hope and new beginnings, as the sounds of carols and warm embraces are shared among families and friends. It's a moment when the city comes together in a spirit of renewal and gratitude.

Santurantikuy

Santurantikuy is a traditional Christmas craft fair associated with December 24 in Cusco's Plaza de Armas. Artisans sell nativity figures and other handmade pieces, making it a useful addition to a holiday itinerary. Check the current year's program before deciding which day to set aside.

Christmas and New Year can also affect demand for accommodation and transport. Allow time for the celebrations you want to attend without squeezing them between a late train arrival and an early departure. Confirm restaurant and activity opening times for the holidays.

Takanakuy

This is an ancient Andean tradition celebrated in the province of Chumbivilcas (Cusco / Apurímac) every December 25th, in which community members resolve disputes through regulated ritual fights. It is the "Fight Club" of the Andes.

Child Callaocarpino and Jacobo Illanes

The festival in honor of Niño Callaocarpino and Niño Jacobo takes place in the Huancavelica region between December 30 and January 2. It attracts a large number of parishioners.

FAQs

Here’s a list of 10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting Machu Picchu in December, along with their answers:

How much rain can I expect in December?

December forms part of the rainy season, with rainfall occurring frequently, especially in the afternoon. While there will be periods of sunshine, be prepared for showers and pack rain gear. On average, Machu Picchu receives about 120mm of rain during this month.

Does it rain all day in December?

Not necessarily. You may have showers, dry breaks or longer periods of rain. A monthly average cannot tell you how your particular visit will unfold, so prepare for wet conditions even if the forecast looks promising.

Is Machu Picchu open during Christmas and New Year’s?

Yes, Machu Picchu remains open year-round, including on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. However, expect crowds, especially if you visit around the holiday season, as many tourists combine the holidays with their trip to Peru.

Can I buy any Machu Picchu ticket and change circuits inside?

Do not plan on switching routes during your visit. Choose the ticket that matches the areas you want to see and follow the official route map and instructions for that ticket.

Are the trails around Machu Picchu slippery in December?

Yes, due to the rain, the trails can become slippery and muddy. Extra caution is needed when walking around the site, especially on steep or narrow paths. Hiking poles with rubber tips can help with stability

Is November or January a better choice?

Compare the weather pattern, your preferred route and availability for each month. Moving your dates does not guarantee clear views. If your main priority is reducing rain exposure, also compare the dry-season months.

Is December cheaper than the dry season?

Compare actual quotes. Some accommodation or transport offers may be available, but holiday dates can be expensive. Do not assume that admission prices or package rates fall simply because it is the rainy season.

Are there fewer tourists in December compared to peak season?

Yes, fewer tourists visit Machu Picchu in December than during the peak season, which is from June to August. This allows for a more relaxed and intimate experience, but holiday periods like Christmas and New Year's Eve can still see a significant influx of visitors.

Do I need a different packing list for Cusco?

Yes. Your wider trip may include cooler nights, higher elevations and different activities. Add appropriate layers for Cusco and follow separate equipment advice for any mountain trek.

Now that you know all about Machu Picchu in December, discover for yourself the majesty of this wonder with fewer people and a special touch of morning mist. Take advantage of this season for a quieter and more authentic experience. The perfect blend of history, nature and adventure awaits you.

Don't forget to pack your rain poncho. December is ideal for those looking to connect with the past in an almost mystical environment. Book today and get ready to discover Machu Picchu!