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When is the best time to do the Inca Trail?

Alex Keshen
Alex Keshen

Find out the best time to trek the Inca Trail based on weather conditions and peak periods.

We’ve figured out the ideal time to visit one of the world’s most amazing locations by considering all the necessary factors.

The best time to do the Inca Trail

May to August.

Why?

Like here in Australia, it’s winter from May to August in Peru and the chances of rain are much lower, making it a much more pleasant time to trek the trail. However, if you’re camping along the trail be aware that overnight lows can dip below freezing.

Overview

The months on either side of the dry season, May and October, are the best time to trek the Inca Trail as there are less crowds than during peak season, but drier conditions than those during the low season.

The Festival of the Sun takes places towards the end of June and Inca cities always get busier around this time. Peru’s national holiday at the end of July is also a peak time for locals to tackle the Inca Trail, so try and steer clear of this period.

Weather and prices

The best time to do the Inca Trail, weatherwise: Anytime during the drier seasons, as it makes the trail less muddy and easier to hike.

The cheapest time to do the Inca Trail: Early February is the cheapest time to trek the Inca Trail, however the rainfall is much higher at this time. The cheapest time to trek during the drier months is late August.

The best time to visit the Inca Trail...

  • On a budget. If you want to complete the Inca Trail on a budget, travelling during the months with the most rainfall is the cheapest. Travelling between February and April offers the cheapest tour options.
  • With less crowds. If you want to travel the Inca Trail when there are less crowds, steer clear of the Festival of the Sun and Peru’s national holiday, which both happen between June and July. Also, try touring during the shoulder periods, like early May and late August.
  • With the coolest weather. Peru’s weather is very consistent throughout the year, but anytime between February and July is going to be the coolest time to travel.

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