Machu Picchu in May
May is an excellent time to visit Machu Picchu as it falls within the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. The weather during this time is generally dry and sunny, with warm temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night, making it a comfortable time to explore the ruins and surrounding areas.
Visitors can expect to see clear skies, allowing for breathtaking views of the ruins and the surrounding Andean landscape. Additionally, May falls outside of the peak tourist season, which means there are usually fewer crowds, shorter lines, and lower prices for accommodations and activities.
However, it’s important to note that May can be one of the busiest months in Machu Picchu, as it is a popular time for travel and tourism. It’s still advisable to book tickets and accommodations in advance to ensure availability.
In May, 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.
Overall, May is a great time to visit Machu Picchu, offering a combination of good weather, beautiful scenery, and relatively fewer crowds.
May: is it a good time to visit Machu Picchu?
Apart from the wonderful climate, May presents a plethora of captivating festivities throughout the Sacred Valley. This period is part of the shoulder season, which marks the start of the dry season and the arrival of tourists, but without overwhelming crowds.
Following the peak season months of June through August, May is deemed the ideal and most favored month for scaling the Machu Picchu ruins, as the number of travelers remains relatively low, and the trail boasts genuine floral gems and wildlife.
Moreover, being a shoulder season month, numerous hotels and travel agencies in Cusco offer irresistible packages and reduced prices on their services. However, it is advisable to book in advance to secure your spot!
What is the weather like in May?
May is characterized by bright and clear skies, albeit with chilly temperatures, particularly at night when the cold is palpable. The temperature ranges around 19°C, with a maximum peak of no more than 20°C (68°F). Meanwhile, the minimum temperature hovers between 4 to 5°C.
On the other hand, precipitation is infrequent, except for sporadic brief showers. Additionally, if you ascend to the Inca sanctuary early in the morning, you might witness the monument shrouded in clouds, making it ideal to ascend from 9 am.
What to wear for Machu Picchu in May?
When traveling to Machu Picchu in May, it’s essential to use sunscreen, as the sun can be scorching during the day.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to consider the limited shade among the ruins, which makes sun protection a must-have. A hat and sunglasses can also shield you from heatstroke and strong winds.
On the other hand, I suggest wearing shorts and breathable T-shirts to explore the ruins with ease. However, weather conditions can fluctuate, particularly in the morning and as the evening approaches, so it’s necessary to carry a fleece coat and an inner layer to keep the chill away.
I also recommend wearing comfortable shoes, specifically designed for mountain hiking, to easily adapt to the trail’s demands. Ensure your shoes have a sturdy grip.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack waterproof clothing, like a jacket or poncho, as it can rain at any time of the day. Additionally, carry some snacks, extra batteries, and ample bottled water for the journey.
How crowded is it in the month of May?
Synonym: Many travel agencies and hotels offer discounts and reduced prices this month. Nevertheless, I advise purchasing your tickets and making reservations at the beginning of the month and well in advance, before the influx of tourists from around the globe begins.
Recommendations for visiting Machu Picchu in May
May offers a plethora of outdoor activities to experience in the Sacred Valley, making it an ideal month for adventure-seeking travelers. Popular sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray provide excellent opportunities for hiking and discovering tourist gems.
The region also hosts many festivals during this time, including the Vigil of Crosses, which takes place in various communities around the Sacred Valley. With little to no rainfall, hiking and trekking through the area is much more enjoyable, and visitors can explore the Inca Trail and the ruins of Moray with ease.
The month of May is also known for its vibrant flora and fauna, with surrounding mountains boasting a bright emerald hue, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Outdoor activities such as rafting and hiking are highly recommended during this month as water levels are optimal, and enthusiasts can take advantage of the Apurimac River for rafting.
Travelers are likely to spot iconic animals such as monkeys, llamas, and alpacas grazing in their natural habitat, along with endangered species such as the spectacled bear and puma. Visitors are advised to observe these animals from a safe distance, except for alpacas and llamas, which can be interacted with closely.
May also features several traditional festivals, such as the Vigil of the Crucifixes on May 2 or 3, where crucifixes are placed on top of hills throughout the Cusco area. The Feast of San Isidro Labrador on May 15 is another festival not to be missed, where locals dress in colorful costumes, decorate cows, and dance to lively music in honor of this saint. Make sure to participate in these unique cultural experiences!