Traveling to Machu Picchu in September can raise some concerns for travelers. September marks a transition from the dry season to the rainy season. During this month, you may experience casual brief showers in the afternoons, along with the occasional mosquito (A good insect repellent will be enough). However, visitor numbers tend to decrease as it signals the start of the low tourism season. You'll enjoy longer hours of sunlight, warmer days, and cooler nights. Additionally, hotel, restaurant, and tour prices typically drop due to the lower demand.
Explore why September is considered one of the best months to visit Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu weather: September
The climate in the Andean region of South America features two main seasons: the dry season, which lasts from May to September, and the rainy season, from October to April. So, September serves as a transitional month, offering the benefits of both seasons: the freshness of light rains and the sunshine of the dry season. Therefore, the Machu Picchu weather in September typically reaches highs of 23°C (72°F) during the day and lows around 7°C (44°F) at night, resulting in warm and large days with plenty of sunshine and cool evenings.
During this month, the average total rainfall is about 56 mm (2.2 inches), with light rains occurring on approximately five days distributed throughout the month, primarily in the afternoon.
Why visit Machu Picchu in September?
It is an ideal time to visit if you love being surrounded by intense greenery with a delightful and fresh temperature. But beyond that, why should you consider visiting Machu Picchu in September?
- The sunny days are getting longer, giving you more time to visit the Inca citadel under the sun, take fantastic photos, or hike Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain.
- During September, you can explore Machu Picchu Citadel without the usual crowds, as the number of visitors begins to decline. This month marks a transition from peak to low season in tourism, allowing you to experience Machu Picchu almost exclusively.
- You can also take advantage of deals on hotel, restaurant, and tour prices. With lower demand comes lower prices, so in September, you’ll find special offers to enjoy Machu Picchu. Unique experiences, delicious flavors, and cozy accommodations will be available at the best prices.
 |  |
- Expect to find fresh shade during the day as large clouds begin to fill the sky, providing cool shelter for visitors to the citadel.
- September is also one of the best months for bird watching. The slightly more humid weather, influenced by sporadic rains, encourages the growth and blooming of various plants, leading to increased bird activity during the day. Notably, some birds, including Peru’s national bird, the cock-of-the-rock, enter their mating season during this time.
- If you're looking for an authentic adventure on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this month is an ideal time to go. You'll enjoy clear, warm days with a possibility of light showers, muddy trails, and the refreshing atmosphere of the cloud forest. It's truly a remarkable experience.
Disadvantages of visiting Machu Picchu in September
Visiting the Inca citadel in September generally has very few disadvantages.
- There may be light rain in the afternoons occurring around five-day throughout September.
- With the increase in humidity, mosquitoes may start to appear in small numbers during this month, so it’s important to carry a good repellent.
- In early September, you may still notice some smoke around Machu Picchu, as forest fires are common during this time. Local residents in the rainforest often burn their land to prepare for planting, which can result in a less clear view of Machu Picchu.
The best time of day to visit Machu Picchu in September
In September, the best time to visit the Inca citadel is around 6:00 am, as soon as the archaeological park opens. At this time, you'll see the first rays of sunlight pass through Machu Picchu, which cause the fog to lift into the sky, creating a spectacular view.
Remember
Access to the archaeological park of Machu Picchu is open from 6:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm.
The best tours to Machu Picchu in September
According to your plans, your particular interest and the features that best suit your preference, you can choose from the various plans offered to you. It will depend on the time you have for it, your financial availability and the distances you will have to travel.
Machu Picchu one day by train
This option includes a transfer from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you will board a tourist train heading to Aguas Calientes. During the train journey, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Andean mountains and tropical forests. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you will take a bus to Machu Picchu for a complete tour.
The return journey follows the same route. This Machu Picchu Day Trip by train lasts between 14 and 15 hours, offering you a full day to appreciate everything, with the guidance of an authorized and experienced professional guide.
Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu 2D
You can enjoy a two-day experience exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including a visit to Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour 2 days will also take you to visit places of great interest such as Pisac, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. Throughout the trip, you will be accompanied by a professional guide who will provide insight into these invaluable archaeological sites.
Classic Inca Trail 4D/3N
For those who enjoy being outdoors, walking, and exercising, there is a trail that connects the Sacred Valley of the Incas with Machu Picchu. The classic Inca Trail 4 days spans almost 40 kilometers and typically takes about 4 days and 3 nights to complete. Along the way, you will visit several archaeological sites, including Phuyupatamarca, Runkurakay, and Sayacmarca, before reaching Machu Picchu.
 |  |
Short Inca Trail 2D/1N
Another very attractive alternative is the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 days. This trek covers the last two days of the classic four-day Inca Trail. Along the way, hikers have the opportunity to visit sites of significant archaeological interest, including Wiñay Wayna, Chacabamba, the Sun Gate, and the breathtaking Machu Picchu.
Inca Jungle 4D/3N
The Inca Jungle Trek is an alternative route to Machu Picchu. This adventurous journey includes mountain biking from Cruzpata to the village of Maras, rafting on the Urubamba River, hiking along the lost Inca trails through the dense Andean jungle, and ultimately visiting Machu Picchu.
Tips for visiting Machu Picchu in September
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu well in advance is essential. This involves considering the cost of each route, the weather conditions, and the type of clothing you will need to wear.
How far in advance should I book Machu Picchu tickets?
It is highly recommended to book your Machu Picchu tickets at least 5 months in advance. The Inca citadel has a limited capacity for visitors each day to ensure the conservation of the site.
Once you have secured your admission tickets to Machu Picchu, you can then consider the train service. The train schedule will depend on the entrance time of your Machu Picchu ticket if you plan to visit in one day from Cusco.
If you wish to visit the Inca citadel early in the morning, we recommend spending the night before in Aguas Calientes.
Finally, consider the bus service that takes you from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. CONSETTUR is the bus company you will use, and you can purchase tickets at any time, even the day before your trip.
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, we suggest booking a tour to Machu Picchu through a travel agency.
What to pack?
You should bring:
- Warm clothing both in the dry season and in the rainy season.
- Raincoats
- Footwear adapted to the terrain
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Something light to eat
- Bottled water
- A hat
FAQs - Machu Picchu in September
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting Machu Picchu in September, along with relevant answers:
How is the wildlife in September at Machu Picchu?
September offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife such as birds, including the Andean condor and various hummingbirds. You may also spot llamas and alpacas roaming around the ruins.
Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in September?
Yes, both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are open in September, but tickets are limited and must be reserved in advance. These hikes offer stunning panoramic views but require a good level of fitness.
Can I take an umbrella or a large backpack into Machu Picchu?
No. Umbrellas, tripods, camera extensions, drones, and bags larger than 40 × 35 × 20 cm are not allowed. Visitors may not enter with food either. Bring a small daypack and leave your main luggage at your hotel or another storage point before heading to the entrance.
How much time should I leave between my train and entry time?
As a practical rule, leave at least 90 minutes between your arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo and your scheduled entry. The bus ride to the archaeological site takes about 25 minutes, and queues may add extra time. A two-hour buffer is more comfortable during busy mornings or rainy weather.
Which seasonal Machu Picchu routes are open in September?
September falls within the period when seasonal routes are normally available. These include the Intipunku Gateway, Inca Bridge, Great Cavern, and Huchuy Picchu routes. Each one requires its own ticket and may close temporarily for maintenance, conservation work, or safety reasons.
Can I buy Machu Picchu tickets in Aguas Calientes?
A limited number of tickets are sold in person at the Cultural Center in Machu Picchu Pueblo. The official website states that these tickets allow entry the following day, and availability is not guaranteed. Treat this as a backup plan, especially if you want a particular route or entry time.
Visiting Machu Picchu in September offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the world's wonders while immersing yourself in Peruvian culture and enjoying stunning landscapes in a more peaceful setting. With pleasant weather, this month is ideal for starting your adventure. Don’t hesitate to plan your trip and discover the magic of Machu Picchu; the memories you create here will last a lifetime.
Prepare to experience unforgettable moments, and let the beauty and mystery of this extraordinary place inspire you!
Add new comment