Machu Picchu in August

August is one of the busiest months to visit Machu Picchu, as it falls within the peak tourist season. However, it’s also a great time to visit as it is typically one of the driest and sunniest months of the year, with clear skies and mild temperatures during the day.

Despite the larger crowds, visitors can still enjoy the beauty and wonder of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean landscape. It’s important to book tickets and accommodations well in advance to ensure availability during this busy season.

In August, visitors can also take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the area, including hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the nearby towns and villages. It’s important to pack appropriate clothing for the weather, including comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket or poncho, and sunscreen and a hat to protect against the strong UV rays at high altitude.
August is also a popular time for festivals and celebrations in the nearby towns and villages, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.

Overall, August is a great time to visit Machu Picchu, offering good weather and opportunities to experience local culture and outdoor activities. However, visitors should be prepared for larger crowds and potentially higher prices for accommodations and activities.

machu picchu in august

August: is it a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

July is considered a peak season for tourism in Machu Picchu and it remains expensive with many visitors, especially from North America and Europe who are on vacation. Although there might be a slight decrease in crowds, the prices of hotels and activities still remain high. Despite this, it is a great month to engage in many outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the mountainous scenery surrounding the ruins while taking a guided tour.

What is the weather like in August?

In August, the weather remains pleasant, with clear skies and the sun shining brightly on the trail. Rainfall is rare during this month, although it can occur briefly at any time.

The daytime temperatures are warm, with a maximum of around 20°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to 5 or 6°C, so it’s recommended to bring warm clothes for the cooler temperatures.

Near the Machu Picchu ruins, the water levels in the jungle are still low, providing an opportunity to observe various fish and wildlife along the riverbanks.

What to wear for Machu Picchu in August?

If you plan to visit Machu Picchu in August, it is important to pack clothing that can keep you comfortable in case of sun or light rain. Below are some clothing recommendations for this month:

Despite the warm temperatures during the day, August nights at Machu Picchu can be quite cold. Bring a wool jacket or sweater to keep you warm when temperatures drop. Additionally, consider packing thermal pajamas, gloves, and other accessories to keep you warm. Pack a poncho or a waterproof coat in case of occasional rain, especially in Machu Picchu where weather conditions are more humid. Choose comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable for exploring Machu Picchu. Opt for comfortable pants and a shirt or blouse with short or long sleeves, depending on your preference. It is recommended to wear thin cotton clothing and consider layered clothing, so you can add or remove layers according to the weather. Wear appropriate footwear for hiking or walking in the mountains. Choose sturdy and comfortable shoes for hiking in Machu Picchu, as the trails can be steep and rocky. Make sure your shoes have grippy soles to avoid slipping. Pack a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun rays. Pack snacks and a bottle of water for the journey.

By packing comfortable and versatile clothing, you will be able to adapt to changes in temperature and climate during your visit to Machu Picchu.

How crowded is August?

Regrettably, August marks the conclusion of the dry season in Cusco, resulting in a continued influx of tourists and subsequent escalation in prices for services provided by hotels and tourist agencies.

Furthermore, without prior reservations, it may be challenging to secure accommodations or tickets for various attractions in the Sacred Valley. Typically, it is advisable to book reservations at least six months in advance to avoid such complications.

Recommendations to visit Machu Picchu in August

The number of activities and tours available in August at Machu Picchu is vast and varied, and it is impossible to cover all of them in this article. Nevertheless, I will now highlight some of the most noteworthy ones.

One of the most sought-after activities is trekking in the countryside, which allows you to get away from the crowds and interact with llamas and alpacas.

The Sacred Valley is home to numerous awe-inspiring ruins, such as the concentric circular terraces of Moray near Maras, or the steep terraces of the historically and culturally significant Ollantaytambo ruins.

If you want to embark on the famous Inca Trail, it is advisable to make reservations several months in advance. However, there are other trekking routes available for those who are passionate about hiking in the mountains.

For instance, the Inca Jungle Trek provides visitors with a jungle experience before culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu on the final day.

If you choose to take the train to Machu Picchu, keep in mind that during the early morning hours (from 6 to 8 am), the site may be shrouded in clouds, which can obscure the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation.

Regarding festivities, be sure to take part in the Andean mega-celebrations of Pachamama Raymi and Willka Raymi. The former is held on August 1st in honor of the Inca Mother Earth at the ruins of Moray, while the latter takes place on August 31st and features displays of gratitude to the Andean Condor, accompanied by live traditional music and typical regional festivities.