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.
Hot deals to Peru
LATAM Airlines
South America flights from $1,180 return
Valid for travel between October 2019 - July 2020. Destinations include Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia and more. Sample fare is Melbourne-Santiago de Chile.
Last verified
Deal ends
G Adventures
Up to 30% off Peru tours
Valid for travel from 15 September - 10 November 2019. T&Cs apply.
Last verified
Deal ends
Trafalgar Tours
Extra 10% off Latin America 2020 tours
Valid for travel between January - December 2020. Destinations include Mexico, Antarctica, Chile, Brazil, Costa Rica, Peru and more. T&Cs apply.
Last verified
Deal ends
Popular Travel coupon codes
| Last checked | Code description | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 16 Sep 2019 | 10% off local experiences | 10F**** |
| 10 Sep 2019 | Get $20 credit | FIN**** |
| 31 Jul 2019 | Extra 8% off flights worldwide | AUM**** |
| 20 May 2019 | Up to 15% off airport parking across Australia | AWA**** |
| 9 Apr 2019 | Up to 50% off experiences + extra 10% off with code | FIN**** |
