Machu Picchu In December

When is the best time of the day to visit Machu Picchu in December?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu in December is from 09 am – 12 pm because most of the time early in the morning Machu Picchu stays misty so if you go at 6 am, you have to wait 3 hours to take a classical shot and it rains most of the time in the afternoons.

Things to Know

• The temperature in Machu Picchu fluctuates from a high of 26°C (78.8°F) to and low of 13°C (55.4°F).
• Crowds are low at the start of the month because of the rainy season, but begin increasing during the last 12 days of December because of the Christmas festivals.
• Hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies offer great deals at this time of year.
• If you can’t tolerate rain then visiting Machu Picchu late in the year may not be the best option for you.
• Some days (and occasionally weeks), you will have a blue sky with amazing vistas.
• Take note that if you want to travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train to (Aguas Calientes train station), services from Cusco’s Poroy train station stop operating at the end of the month because of the landslide that might occur on the way. All the trains will leave from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. So you need to take colectivos from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
• December has the longest day of the year in Machu Picchu, Peru.

Pros Of Visiting Machu Picchu In December

• The cloud formations make the photos look even better, If you catch the picture right with a bit of sun poking through the mist.
• In December, crowd levels in Machu Picchu drop considerably because of the rainy season.
• If it is a good day, wait for the summer solstice event, the sunlight hitting through the sun temple window on December 21st. (Weather allowing)
• Many species of flora start thriving around Machu Picchu such as lilies, and Orchids. This makes the scenery more vibrant with green landscapes.
• If you are a pluviophile type of person, late December may be a good option for you.

Cons Of  Visiting Machu  Picchu In December

• Aggressive mosquitoes swirl around and attack visitors.
• The trail can be waterlogged, which might make your experience not enjoyable.
• Machu Picchu in the early hours and afternoon may be barely visible due to thick fog.
• The trails are often wet after the rain. This makes the path very slippery and can often be slightly unnerving on the steeper sections

Recommendations

• If you plan to visit Machu Picchu in December, we recommend you book in early December because in late December the rain gets worse and it gets crowded because of Christmas and New Year.
• If you are thinking to visit Machu Picchu in late December, we recommend you book your Machu Picchu tickets at least 3 months in advance because of Christmas and new year, many Peruvian travel to Cusco and take advantage of going to Machu Picchu.
• Make sure you have a good rain jacket, and a lightweight poncho, and try to pack appropriate apparel.
• Bring mosquito repellent for anointing your skin, or on the contrary, cover your arms and legs with appropriate clothing.
• We recommend you have a wáterproof phone and Camera, because of the rain.
• Bring a dry bag for smartphones and other devices.
• Take with you shoes with good soles – and possible gaiters.
• If it is raining heavily once you get to Machu Picchu early in the morning. try to wait either at the café which is close to the Machu Picchu entrance. The rain usually lasts 1 hour or 2 hours then it goes away.
• If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain. We recommend you book on a later schedule because, in the early mornings, the view from the top is obscured with mist.

Do you have a rough idea of when the Machu Picchu tickets for December sell out by?

Tickets for Machu Picchu with Circuit 2 are generally sold out a month in advance during the final two weeks of December. In contrast, tickets for Machu Picchu with Circuits 1 and 3 are usually sold out two weeks ahead. However, during the first two weeks of December, tickets for Circuit 2 often sell out two weeks prior, whereas tickets for Circuits 1 and 3 are typically still available upon arrival in Cusco.

Frequent Asked Questions

Is December a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

December is a good time to visit Machu Picchu, but it has both advantages and disadvantages. The weather in December is generally warm and sunny, which can make for pleasant sightseeing. However, it’s also the start of the rainy season, so there’s a higher chance of encountering rain showers, which could affect your outdoor activities and hiking plans. Additionally, the last 2 weeks of  December is busy because of christmas and New year, so the site can be more crowded, which might impact your experience. Overall, while December offers favorable weather, visitors should be prepared for potential rain and crowds.

Should I Be Concerned About Heavy Rainfall in December?

If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu in December and wondering about heavy rainfall, it’s wise to be cautious. Machu Picchu experiences its rainy season during December, which means there’s a higher chance of heavy rainfall. While this can enhance the lush greenery and offer a unique experience, it could also lead to slippery trails and limited visibility. Consider packing appropriate rain gear and being prepared for potential disruptions to your plans due to the weather.

Are there still guided tours available in December?

Yes, we provide guided tours year-round, including December. Booking a guided tour offers valuable insights into the history and significance of Machu Picchu.

Is Machu Picchu Opened In December?

Machu Picchu typically remains open year-round, including in December.

How Rainy Is Machu Picchu In December?

In December, Machu Picchu experiences its rainy season. This means there’s a good chance of rain during this time. Bring waterproof clothing and gear to stay dry and comfortable while exploring the ancient ruins and surrounding landscapes.

What Should I Wear To Machu Picchu In December?

Choosing the right attire for Machu Picchu in December depends on the weather and your comfort. In December, Machu Picchu experiences the early days of the rainy season, so it’s essential to dress in layers and bring waterproof gear like a rain jacket or poncho. Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with good traction, as you’ll be exploring uneven terrain. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun, along with sunscreen and insect repellent. Consider packing lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing that dries quickly, as humidity levels can be high. Lastly, don’t forget to carry a small backpack for essentials like water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views.

Is it worth going to Machu Picchu in December?

Visiting Machu Picchu in December can be worthwhile, but it’s essential to consider the weather and tourist crowds especially in the last week. December falls within the rainy season, so expect occasional showers that might affect your experience. However, the lush greenery and fewer tourists compared to the peak season can offer a unique perspective of the ancient ruins. Additionally, December offers the opportunity to experience Christmas and New Year celebrations in Peru, adding cultural richness to your journey. Overall, while December might not provide ideal weather conditions, it can still be a rewarding time to visit Machu Picchu if you’re prepared for the occasional rain and interested in experiencing the site in a quieter atmosphere.

What Is The Average Temperature For The Machu Picchu In December?

In December, Machu Picchu, a famous historical site in Peru, experiences average temperatures during the day ranging from around 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (around 20 to 21 degrees Celsius). At night, temperatures tend to drop, averaging around 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (around 7 to 10 degrees Celsius). These temperatures can vary slightly depending on the specific weather patterns during that time, but generally, December offers mild days and cooler nights at Machu Picchu.

Is Machu Picchu Crowded In December?

In the first two weeks of December, there are fewer people around compared to the last two weeks. This happens because Christmas and New Year’s occur towards the end of the month, drawing more crowds. So, if you prefer less hustle and bustle, early December might be the better time for you to plan your activities or outings.

What Is The Weather Like In Machu Picchu In December?

In December, the weather in Machu Picchu is typically warm during the day and cool at night. It’s the beginning of the rainy season, so there may be occasional showers, but they’re usually brief. It’s important to pack layers and rain gear for unpredictable weather. The lush green landscape and fewer crowds make December a great time to visit Machu Picchu, despite the possibility of rain.