Inca Trail In November

Things to know

• Shoulder Season: November is still considered part of the shoulder season, with a mix of sunny and rainy days. Temperatures remain relatively mild; however, rainfall becomes more frequent and intense compared to October.
• Orchids and Seasonal Flora: As November falls within the Andean spring, hikers can observe blooming orchids and a wide variety of seasonal flowers along the trail, adding vibrant color and vitality to the landscape.
• Crowds: Inca Trail permits are partially booked during November. Some dates reach full capacity, while others remain less crowded. As a result, the number of hikers varies depending on the specific departure date, and there is no exact pattern for fully booked days. The main place where you will notice fewer visitors is Machu Picchu, as the overall number of travelers decreases in November.
• Some Dates Still Sell Out in Advance: Although the entire month does not sell out, certain dates do become fully booked. In particular, the most desirable campsites tend to fill up quickly, so booking in advance is still strongly recommended.
• Excellent Photography Conditions: November offers excellent opportunities for photography. The combination of bright sunlight, occasional dramatic cloud formations, and lush green scenery creates ideal natural lighting conditions.
• Unique Natural Sounds: A distinctive feature of November is the presence of small toads along certain sections of the Inca Trail. Their calls are especially noticeable after the second campsite, Pacaymayo, as you hike toward the second pass and continue to Phuyupatamarca, adding a unique and memorable auditory element to the journey.
• Lightning: In November, rain may sometimes come with lightning. It usually happens in the evening, when you are already at lower campsites, so it is safe. These storms are not common, and the main thing you will notice is the sound of thunder.

Weather and Trail Conditions

• Rain: November marks the beginning of the rainy season. Weather conditions are mixed, with both sunny and rainy periods throughout the day. Rain typically occurs in the afternoon or evening, although occasional morning showers can also happen, often followed by clearer skies later in the day. It is important to note that it does not rain continuously; for example, there may be one or two rainy days followed by several days of sunshine.
• Temperature: During November, daytime temperatures along the trail generally range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), offering comfortable conditions for trekking. Nights become cooler, particularly at higher-altitude campsites, although they are not as cold as during the peak winter months. Nighttime temperatures usually range between 2°C and 7°C (36°F to 45°F). The lowest temperatures are typically experienced at the second campsite, located above 3,600 meters, where the higher elevation makes the cold more noticeable.
• Visibility: Visibility in November can be variable, with some days offering clear views and others more limited conditions. During the first and second days of the trek, visibility is generally good, even during the rainy season, although the mountain peaks may be partially covered by mist. The third day tends to present more challenges, as the trail passes through cloud forest areas where low clouds and mist frequently obscure the views. On the final day, at the Sun Gate, mist can sometimes cover the classic view of Machu Picchu, depending on weather conditions.

Pros Of Hiking Inca Trail In November

• Ideal Conditions for Time-Lapse Photography and Video: November marks the transition into the rainy season along the Inca Trail, bringing heavier rainfall and constantly shifting cloud formations over the mountains. These dynamic atmospheric conditions, combined with intermittent rain and low-lying clouds, create exceptional opportunities for capturing dramatic time-lapse sequences and visually striking landscape photography.
• Vivid Rainbow Displays: The combination of rainfall and the reappearance of sunlight during November frequently produces vivid rainbow formations across the Andean landscape. These natural phenomena add a distinctive and colorful dimension to the trekking experience along the Inca Trail.
• Mild and Comfortable Temperatures: As part of the shoulder season, November offers relatively moderate temperatures. Nights and early mornings tend to be less cold compared to the peak dry season months, making camping and early departures more comfortable for hikers.
• Blooming Flowers and Native Orchids: The arrival of spring brings renewed vegetation along the trail. A variety of flowers begin to bloom, including native orchids, adding vibrant color and botanical diversity throughout the route.
• Natural Shade from Cloud Cover: The increased presence of clouds and occasional mist during November provides natural shade during daylight hours. This reduces direct sun exposure and contributes to more comfortable hiking conditions overall.
• Increased Bird Activity: November is an active period for birdlife along the trail. The abundance of blooming flowers attracts hummingbirds and other species, offering hikers greater opportunities for birdwatching throughout the journey.
• Fewer Visitors on the Trail: Compared to peak months, November sees a lower number of hikers. On certain dates, permits may only reach around 50% capacity, allowing for a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience.
• Greater Availability of Permits: Due to reduced demand, it is often easier to secure permits for the Inca Trail. In some cases, availability may even extend to last-minute bookings, offering greater flexibility for travelers.
• Seasonal Waterfalls Along the Trail: Rainfall contributes to the formation of temporary waterfalls along the route. These cascades, often visible during the hike, enhance the scenic beauty of the landscape.
• Lush Green Landscapes: The initial rains revive the vegetation, transforming the surroundings into vibrant green scenery. The mountains and valleys appear more alive, offering a visually rich and refreshing trekking environment.

Cons Of Hiking Inca Trail In November

• Partial Mist Covering the Mountains: With the arrival of the rains, mountain views may at times be obscured by low clouds and mist, particularly on rainy days. This can reduce long-distance visibility, especially on the third day, as this section of the trail passes through cloud forest environments.
• Discomfort During Rainy Days: Periods of rain can make the trek less comfortable, as cold temperatures combined with moisture may affect overall enjoyment.
• Mist at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): On overcast or rainy days, the area around Inti Punku may become enveloped in mist. In some cases, visibility of Machu Picchu is limited, and the clouds may not fully clear, meaning hikers may need to continue without the classic first panoramic view from the Sun Gate.
• Increased Mosquito Activity: As humidity rises with the onset of the rainy season, mosquito activity becomes more noticeable, particularly in warmer and more humid sections of the trail.
• Wet and Muddy Trail Conditions: Rain can make certain sections of the Inca Trail wet and muddy, requiring extra caution while hiking to maintain safety and stability.
• Occasional Nighttime Storms: Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning may occur at night. While campsites are generally located in safer, lower-altitude areas, the sound of thunder can be intense. These storms are not frequent and typically occur only a few times per month.

Recommendations

• Prepare Properly for November Conditions: If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail in November, it is essential to bring high-quality rain gear in order to make the most of your adventure. Rainfall becomes more frequent during this period, and showers can occasionally be heavy.
• Protect Your Electronic Devices: To safeguard your smartphone, camera, and other electronic equipment, it is strongly recommended to carry waterproof covers or sealed plastic bags. This simple precaution will help protect your devices from moisture during unexpected rain showers along the trail.
• Stay Informed Through Official Updates: We highly recommend following our Instagram page (https://www.instagram.com/abexpeditions/). We regularly share monthly videos of the Inca Trail, updates on permit releases, changes in regulations, and important information such as strikes or any situations that may affect travel on the trail.
• Bring Warm Clothing for High Camps: Even though November is generally warmer compared to the dry season months, temperatures in the mountains can still feel cold, especially during rainy days and at higher campsites, such as the second campsite. Proper layering is essential for comfort.
• Use Hiking Poles for Safety: Hiking poles are highly recommended, particularly when the trail becomes wet and slippery. They provide additional stability and significantly improve safety during the trek.
• Secure November Permits Early: If you are planning to hike in November, it is still advisable to book your permits in advance. Doing so will increase your chances of obtaining preferred departure dates and better campsite allocations.
• Bring Waterproof Gloves if Using Trekking Poles: If you plan to use trekking poles, waterproof gloves are highly recommended. They will keep your hands dry and comfortable, particularly during rainy and cold conditions.

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

It all depends on Peru’s political situation. In 2019 before the pandemic, the Inca Trail permits were sold out for November 2 months in advance. However this year there are plenty of Inca trail permits for November. So you could still find the permits even upon arrival.

Frequents Asked Questions about Inca Trail In November

Does It Rain In Inca Trail In November?

November falls within the rainy season in the Inca Trail region of Peru. While rain can be expected, the intensity and frequency vary from year to year. Generally, you can anticipate some rainfall during November, but it’s not constant throughout the entire month.

Is November A Good Time To Do The Inca Trail?

November is still go time to hike on the Inca Trail. Falling in the shoulder season between the dry and wet periods, November typically experiences milder weather, with fewer crowds compared to the peak months of June to August. This means you may enjoy more tranquility along the trail while still benefiting from relatively stable weather conditions. However, it’s essential to be prepared for occasional showers and variable temperatures, as November marks the transition into the rainy season,

What is the average temperature for the Inca Trail in November?

The average temperature along the Inca Trail in November typically ranges from around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day. However, temperatures can vary depending on the specific location along the trail and the time of day. At higher altitudes, such as at the highest point of the trail at Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at approximately 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) above sea level, temperatures can be cooler,

Is Inca Trail open in November?

Yes, the Inca Trail typically remains open in November, offering adventurers the opportunity to embark on this iconic trek through the stunning Peruvian Andes.

Is Inca Trail Crowded In November?

While November sees a decrease in the number of visitors compared to the preceding months, it can still attract a considerable number of trekkers, especially during the first half of the month before the rainy season sets in. However, compared to the peak months, you may find the trail to be less crowded, allowing for a more serene and immersive experience amidst the stunning Andean landscapes.