Machu Picchu in July

July 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.

machu picchu in july

Machu Picchu (Quechua: Machu Picchu) – “Old Mountain”, is a pre-Columbian Inca site located 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above sea level. It is situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba Valley in Peru, which is 80 kilometres (50 mi) northwest of Cuzco and through which the Urubamba River flows. Most archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was built as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438–1472). Often referred to as “The Lost City of the Incas”, it is perhaps the most familiar icon of the Inca World. Machu Picchu was declared a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Since it was not plundered by the Spanish when they conquered the Incas, it is especially important as a cultural site and is considered a sacred place.http://bem.2be.pl/IS/peru_380.jpg[/caption]

In July, 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.
July 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, July 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.

Is July a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

July is an ideal month to visit Machu Picchu due to its dry and sunny weather conditions. It is also a great time to stargaze at night. However, it is worth noting that it is one of the busiest months for tourism, particularly during the first half of the month, as the traditional Andean ceremony of Inti Raymi takes place, attracting a large number of visitors.

To ensure a smooth trip, it is recommended to book tickets and accommodations in advance. Additionally, travelers should expect larger crowds but can also enjoy a wider range of exciting activities during the holiday season.

What is the weather like in July?

During July, the weather in Machu Picchu is generally dry and sunny, with average temperatures ranging between 10°C and 20°C. This makes it an ideal time to explore the ruins and hike the trails. However, temperatures can drop by as much as 10°C at night, so it’s important to come prepared with warm clothing.

One of the advantages of visiting Machu Picchu in July is that there is usually less rainfall than in other months, which can make hiking and outdoor activities more enjoyable. Additionally, the crowds can be quite large, especially during the first half of the month due to the Inti Raymi celebrations, so it’s important to book tickets and accommodations in advance if possible. Despite the crowds, there are many exciting activities and events taking place during July, including traditional Andean music and dance performances, cultural exhibitions, and local food festivals.

What to wear to Machu Picchu in July?

Despite being the driest season of the year, evenings in Cusco can get quite chilly. Here are some clothing suggestions to include in your luggage:

  • Warm clothes for the evenings, such as coats, hoodies, and fleece liners to keep you warm when temperatures drop. It’s also a good idea to pack thermal pajamas, thick socks, and hats.
  • Bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket to protect you from the humidity. The sanctuary has a slightly more humid microclimate than the rest of the region, so shorts or skirts are not recommended as they may attract mosquitoes.
  • Wear comfortable footwear suitable for the terrain, such as hiking boots. The terrain in Machu Picchu is mountainous and steep.
  • Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect you from intense sunlight.
  • Basic hiking gear, such as a backpack, water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellent (especially for mosquitoes), should also be included in your packing list.

How crowded is the month of July?

During July, Machu Picchu experiences a high season due to the influx of travelers from North America and Europe who begin their vacation season during this month. Additionally, Peruvian tourists are also attracted to the traditional festivities held in the Inca City during this time.

As a result, the cost of hotels, tours, and activities such as trekking is at its highest level, similar to that of June. If you plan to visit during this peak season and don’t mind crowds, it is advisable to make your reservations well in advance, at least six months prior.

Recommendations for visiting Machu Picchu in July

July presents a great opportunity for trekking and hiking as there are many routes to explore in Machu Picchu. Luckily, not all tourists partake in this activity, so you won’t have to worry about large crowds on the trails.

The challenging ascent up Wayna Picchu also filters out a significant number of visitors, while the Inca Trail is open for those who want a thrilling adventure of camping under the stars and spotting Andean wildlife.

Wildlife lovers will appreciate the opportunity to see Andean condors during the dry months of May to December. Don’t forget to take pictures with the adorable llamas and alpacas that can be found grazing in the mountainous regions of Cusco.

The sanctuary is accessible from 6 am to 5:30 pm. I recommend waiting until after 9 am to visit, as early mornings are often shrouded in clouds, obstructing the breathtaking view of the verdant surroundings.

July is a month of festivities in Cusco, including two major events: the Virgen del Carmen and the Fiestas Patrias. The former involves processions, agricultural shows, and traditional music, and may last until July 16th. The latter is a nationwide celebration of Peru’s independence on July 28th and 29th, during which many locals take time off to relax with friends and family in the streets and main tourist attractions.

Despite the influx of visitors during this season, the vibrant atmosphere and abundance of activities in Machu Picchu make it an unforgettable experience. So, if you’re planning to visit in July, make sure to book your reservations well in advance!