Inca Trail In August

Things to know 

• August is called the month of winds in the Andes because the flow of wind in the afternoons increases at the Inca Trail campsites.
• Book your Inca Trail permits a year in advance if possible for August because they run out quickly.
• During August in the Inca Trail, the temperatures at night and in the early mornings get below freezing especially in the second campsite.
• August is the last month of peak season.
• Inca Trail meets its maximum visitor capacity.
• The sunlight is very intense, so you must be cautious and wear a lot of sunscreen and a sunhat.
• High-altitude hills will be pretty brown in August, but once the trail lowers into the rainforest, the landscape is still Green.
• August is the middle of the dry season, you don’t need to worry about the rain during your hike.
• The temperature is nice for hiking, and the trails are overrun with crowds.
• Rain: On average, rain falls 4 days a month.
• Temperature: It ranges between -0.5 and 22.7-celsius degrees. (31 and 73 ° F).

Pros Of Hiking Inca Trail In August

• Sunny skies minimize the chances that the mountains will be obstructed by clouds
• You will appreciate beautiful flora and fauna and occasional birds on sunny days.
• A high chance of seeing Machu Picchu from the sun gate.
• The Southern Milky Way appears at night.
• Wild fauna such as deers come for water to the small lakes.

Cons Of Hiking Inca Trail In August

• Long queues at Machu Picchu entry and the train stations.
• Many people around the strategic photo spots.
• Too much sun heat.
• Dusty winds by day one.
• The landscape is shrouded some days in smoke as local people in the rainforest set fires on their land to prepare for agriculture. Additionally, forest fires are common in August, and the smoke reaches into the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu areas, obstructing the view and causing discomfort.
• Inca trail permits run out quickly.
• Mosquitos will get you and bother you.
• Brownish grasses in the landscape instead of greenish tones of landscapes.

 Recommendations

• Make sure to bring plenty of water because on a sunny day, you will be thirsty.
• Bring sunblock and chapstick for skin protection.
• Bring layers of clothes because there are times you will be hot and sweaty, and other times you will be cold like at the top of the mountain.
• For bird watchers, bring a long zoom camera or binoculars.
• Booking in advance is recommended for at least 8 months. 
• Bring sunglasses for protection from harmful ultraviolet light rays.

Do you have a rough idea of when the permits for August sell out by?

It all depends on Peru’s political situation. In 2019 before the pandemic, the permits were sold out 5 months in advance. However, because of the strike that happened in January 2023, you could still find the Inca trail permits even upon arrival. On some dates, the permits run out 2 weeks in advance.

• On May 11th, 2024. the permits for the 4-day Inca Trail trek were completely sold out for the first week of August.
• On May 27th, 2024. the permits for the 4-day Inca Trail trek were completely sold out for the second week of August.
• On June 05th, 2024. the permits for the 4-day Inca Trail trek were completely sold out for the third week of August.
• On June 12, 2024. the permits for the 4-day Inca Trail trek were completely sold out for the fourth week of August.

Frequent Asked Questions About Inca Trail In August

Is August A Good Time To Do The Inca Trail?

August can be a good time to hike the Inca Trail, as it falls within the dry season in Peru, offering more reliable weather with minimal rainfall and clearer skies. This period provides excellent conditions for trekking and enjoying the scenic views of the Andean landscapes and archaeological sites.

Does It Rain In Inca Trail In August?

August falls within the dry season along the Inca Trail, offering generally favorable hiking conditions with minimal rainfall.

What Is The Average Temperature For The Inca Trail In August?

The average temperature for the Inca Trail in August typically ranges from around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) during the day, with temperatures dropping to around -7°C to 6°C (19°F to 42°F) at night. However, these temperatures can vary depending on the specific location along the trail and the altitude

Is Inca Trail Open In August?

Yes, the Inca Trail, a renowned trekking route leading to Machu Picchu in Peru, remains open in August.

Is Inca Trail Crowded In August?

Yes, the Inca Trail is crowded in August, as it falls within the peak tourist season for the region.

What Is The Weather Like In Inca Trail In August?

In August, the weather along the Inca Trail typically experiences dry and sunny conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging from cool to mild and nighttime temperatures dropping considerably, especially at higher altitudes.

How Cold Is Inca Trail In August?

In August, temperatures along the Inca Trail can vary but generally range from chilly to mild during the day and drop significantly at night.