Best Time To Trek

Peru has two world-class trekking regions — Huaraz (Cordillera Blanca & Cordillera Huayhuash) and Cusco (Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Salkantay, Ausangate).
Although both share a dry and rainy season, each region has its own microclimates and ideal months for trekking.

As a premium local operator trusted by international travel agencies, Inkaland Treks helps you choose the best time of year based on weather, visibility, altitude, and trail conditions.

Huaraz offers some of the clearest high Andean weather and the most stable trekking season in South America.
The climate is divided into two main seasons.

Peak trekking & climbing season

• Clear skies and excellent visibility
• Minimal rainfall
• Stable weather for multi-day treks
• Long daylight hours (ideal for long days on the trail)
• Cold nights at altitude (–5°C to –15°C)
• Perfect conditions for Huayhuash, Santa Cruz, and alpine climbs (Mateo, Pisco, Vallunaraju)

July & August = High season
We recommend early reservations (hotels, flights, guided expeditions).

Great alternative months with fewer crowds

• Mostly dry with occasional afternoon clouds
• Temperatures are mild and landscapes are vibrant
• Lakes show intense turquoise tones
• Trails are quieter
  Excellent for Laguna 69, Parón, Churup, Llaca and short treks.
  Huayhuash and Santa Cruz are very feasible during these months.

Not recommended for multi-day treks

• Frequent rain, cloudy conditions
• Muddy trails and limited visibility
• Not suitable for Huayhuash or Santa Cruz
• Higher thunderstorms in the afternoons

However:
Private day hikes in Huaraz can still operate safely with the right logistics.
Inkaland Treks operates year-round, but long expeditions are best outside this period.

Cusco follows a similar climate pattern but with slightly longer dry months and more stable mornings.

Ideal for:

• Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail
• Salkantay Trek
• Ausangate Trek
• Rainbow Mountain

Expect:

• Clear mornings
• Dry trails
• Cold nights in high-altitude sections
• Excellent visibility for photography

June–August are the busiest months.

Great balance between weather and fewer crowds.
Perfect for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

• Daily afternoon rains
• Cloud cover around Machu Picchu
• Muddy trails
• Some routes (Inca Trail) close for maintenance in February

Still possible:

• Machu Picchu
• Sacred Valley
• Cultural tours & short walks

Best Overall Months:

May, June, July, August, September

Best for Photography:

June — most stable and crystal-clear skies.

Best for Fewer Crowds:

May & September

Best for Day Hikes (Laguna 69, Parón, Churup, Llaca, etc.):

All year round
From December–March expect stronger UV, occasional rain, and early starts.

✔ Can be operated most of the year
✘ Rainy months reduce views but are still manageable
✔ Best: Mid-April to November

✔ Operated year-round
✔ Best conditions: April–October
✔ Peak season: May–September