CLIMATE ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL The Andean climate is diverse. You can be enjoying a sunny day, and in a matter of seconds, it can turn into rain. To plan your trip, it’s important to consider the two main climatic seasons in the region: DRY SEASON (APRIL TO OCTOBER) During these months, the Short Inca Trail benefits from sunny days and pleasant temperatures. Rain is less common, providing ideal conditions for trekking. RAINY SEASON (NOVEMBER TO MARCH) In this period, rain is more frequent, and trails can become slippery. While the hike remains possible, hikers should be prepared for humid and unpredictable conditions.

BEST TIME TO HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN 2 DAYS

HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN JANUARY

Pros: In this season, you can appreciate beautiful rainbows and flourishing vegetation, including exquisite orchids. Temperatures range between 19°C (66°F) during the day and 7°C (45°F) at night. Cons: Paths may be slippery, and landslides can occur, occasionally causing delays in trains and flights. One of the rainiest months of the year.

HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN FEBRUARY

February is the rainiest month of the year, and the Short Inca Trail is closed throughout this period for maintenance. However, Machu Picchu remains open. Explore alternative hikes like Lares Trek, Huchuy Qosqo Trek, Inca Quarry Trek, and Salkantay Trek. Exercise caution with Salkantay due to the risk of heavy rains and landslides.

Festival: In February, Cusco celebrates “Carnival,” one of the most colorful and joyful festivities in the region, filling the streets with music, dances, parades, and water balloon competitions, creating a festive atmosphere combining tradition with fun.

HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN MARCH

Pros: The Short Inca Trail reopens to visitors after a month of maintenance. Daytime temperatures around 17°C (64°F) and nighttime temperatures of 6°C (42°F). Cons: Slippery trails due to rains. Festival: Holy Week is a significant religious and cultural event celebrated in Cusco with masses, processions, dances, and songs, culminating on Easter Sunday.

HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN APRIL

Pros: The rainy season has ended, fewer crowds, and lush vegetation provide spectacular views. Daytime temperatures around 19°C (66°F) and nighttime temperatures of 5°C (41°F). Cons: Possible crowds due to Holy Week. Higher prices in hotels and services.

Festival: Holy Week is a religious and cultural event of great importance in Cusco, celebrated fervently with masses, processions, dances, and songs, culminating on Easter Sunday.

HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN MAY

Pros: The dry season begins, sunny days with breathtaking views. Daytime temperatures around 19°C (66°F) and nighttime temperatures of 3°C (37°F). Cons: Crowds start, and advance reservations are necessary.

Festival: In May, the Crosses Festival is celebrated, combining Catholic elements with ancestral traditions, featuring adorned crosses carried in processions, folk dances, live music, and cultural events showcasing Peru’s rich heritage.

HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL IN JUNE

Pros: Sunny and clear days. Daytime temperatures around 19°C (66°F) and nighttime temperatures of 1°C (34°F). Cons: Maximum crowds, long lines, and the need for sunscreen during the day.

Festival: On June 24, Cusco enthusiastically celebrates “Inti Raymi” or the Festival of the Sun, an ancient event honoring the sun and representing Inca traditions.

SHORT INCA TRAIL IN JULY

Pros: Dry and sunny days with dreamy views. Daytime temperatures around 19°C (66°F) and nighttime temperatures of 0°C (32°F). Cons: Maximum visitor capacity, long lines, and the need for advance reservations.

Festival: Peru’s Independence Day celebrations on July 28 include parades, concerts, festivals, and other activities commemorating the country’s declaration of independence from the Spanish Empire in 1821.

SHORT INCA TRAIL IN AUGUST

Pros: Clear and sunny days. Starry nights. Daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and nighttime temperatures of 3°C (37°F). Cons: Crowds and the need for advance reservations. Possible drizzles in the afternoon.

Festival: On August 15, Cusco celebrates the “Virgin of the Assumption” festival with colorful parades, traditional dances, and cultural events attracting both locals and tourists.

SHORT INCA TRAIL IN SEPTEMBER

Pros: Fewer crowds. Daytime temperatures around 21°C (69°F) and lows of around 5°C (41°F). Cons: Unpredictable rains, recommended rain gear.

Festival: The “Mamacha Naty” festival, a religious celebration honoring the Virgin Mary, includes a solemn mass, a procession, and colorful dances performed by devotees in traditional attire.

SHORT INCA TRAIL IN OCTOBER

Pros: Sunny days with fewer visitors. Daytime temperatures around 21°C (69°F) and nighttime temperatures of 5°C (41°F). Cons: Afternoon drizzles, recommended rain gear.

Festival: Cusco turns purple to celebrate the “Lord of Miracles,” a religious festival featuring processions through the city’s historic center carrying an image of the crucified Christ.

SHORT INCA TRAIL IN NOVEMBER

Pros: Fewer visitors, spectacular views, and warmer temperatures. Daytime temperatures around 22°C (71°F) and nighttime temperatures of 7°C (44°F). Cons: Start of the rainy season, muddy trails, and landslide risk.

Festival: All Saints’ Day, a celebration where families gather to honor the deceased with visits to cemeteries and the placement of offerings (flowers, candles, bread, and sweets).

SHORT INCA TRAIL IN DECEMBER

Pros: Flourishing landscapes, rainbows, and mist. Daytime temperatures around 22°C (71°F) and nighttime temperatures of 6°C (42°F). Cons: Rains, muddy trails, and landslide risk.

Festival: A special advantage of traveling in December is the opportunity to experience Christmas festivities in a truly unique setting.

IN CONCLUSION… WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?

The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with sunny days and less rain, making the hike more comfortable and safe. However, note that between June and July, the peak season occurs, and prices for accommodations and tours increase. Therefore, my recommendation is to plan and book in advance if you intend to hike the Short Inca Trail during those months.