Machu Picchu In September

Is the weather going to be a problem in Machu Picchu in September? September is still officially in the dry season, but there might be some brief showers as the rainy season is coming by. It will get fairly warm during the day, but you will feel cold at night. It can´t be a serious issue, though. Machu Picchu in September sees fewer visitors in comparison to June, July, and August, which means September falls to be a shoulder season after student hordes and travelers from the north have gone back to school. There is no particular risk in visiting Machu Picchu in September.

Note: Did you know to visit Machu Picchu you should follow different circuits? We choose the best circuit for you. Check out our, Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu 2 days, Machu Picchu 1-day trip,  and Machu Pichu 2-day Tour

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

The best time to visit Machu Picchu in September is around 06:00 am in the morning. At this time of the day, the solar heating warms the surface and destroys the clouds, all that rising fogs vanish and reveal Machu Picchu early. 

machu picchu in september

Things to know

  • September is a good month for birders around the Machu Picchu area. In the Andes, it is mating season for many birds, one of them is the most charismatic and colorful bird, the Andean cock-of-the-rock.
  • September is the start of the wet season and the end of the dry season; cold days and nights decrease, and the temperature becomes warmer with an enjoyable climate. The first rains of September may surprise you at any time so be ready with your rain clothes.
  • The price of some services starts decreasing.
  • Machu Picchu experiences a decline in visitation
  • Daylight hours become longer in September.
  • The temperature in Machu Picchu fluctuates between 11°C and 26°C (51.8°F – 78.8°F).
  • September is still a great time to hike all the trekking options that end in Machu Picchu, such as the Inka Trail 4 days.

Pros Of Visiting Machu Picchu In September

  • You will visit Machu Picchu without the crowd like in May, June, July, and August.
  • You will still have sunny days to take a nice picture of Mapi. 
  • clouds will provide some shade while visiting Machu Picchu.
  • Better deals on hotel prices and tours.

Cons Of Visiting Machu Picchu In September

  • You may encounter some rain in the afternoon.
  • Few aggressive mosquitoes attack visitors.
  • In early September, you might still see some smoke at Machu Picchu because forest fires are common during this time. People living in the rainforest also burn their land to prepare for planting. This can make the view of Machu Picchu less clear, especially when you’re climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu.

Recommendations

  • Book well in advance the Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets. The early entrance tickets run out quickly. 
  • Put on sunscreen and wear a hat because the sun is a scorcher at times.
  • Bring layers. Although it will be sunny and pleasant most of the time, early rains can pour down in late September, so bring waterproof clothing. 
  • Study the landscape more in detail before you get Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu tickets. Check out Huayna Picchu vs Machu Picchu mountain. 
  • Bring your Mosquito spray or repellent, because in September you will have to deal with these little insects.

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

Tickets for Machu Picchu, particularly for Circuit 2, generally sell out two months ahead of time. Tickets for Circuit 3 usually sell out two weeks in advance, while Circuit 1 tickets may still be available upon arrival in Cusco.
 

Frequent Asked Questions

Is September a good time to visit Machu Picchu?

September is generally considered one of the best times to visit Machu Picchu due to its mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season of June to August. During September, you can expect comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and lower chances of rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying the scenic vistas of the surrounding Andes Mountains. However, it’s advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance, as September still attracts a significant number of visitors eager to experience this iconic archaeological site in Peru.

Are there landslides or flooding in September in Machu Picchu?

Historically there were not any landslides or flooding on the way to Machu Picchu. September is just the beginning of the rainy season.

Are there still guided tours available in September?

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

Is Machu Picchu Opened In September?

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

How Rainy Is Machu Picchu In September?

In September, Machu Picchu experiences the tail end of its dry season transitioning into the wetter months. While rainfall is generally less frequent compared to the peak of the wet season, occasional showers can still occur. Visitors to Machu Picchu in September should be prepared for variable weather conditions, including both sunny days and rainy spells. It’s advisable to pack waterproof clothing and gear, along with sturdy hiking shoes, to fully enjoy the site and surrounding trails despite potential rainfall.

What Should I Wear To Machu Picchu In September?

When visiting Machu Picchu in September, it’s essential to prepare for varying weather conditions. In this transitional month, temperatures can range from cool mornings to warmer afternoons, with occasional rain showers. Opt for layered clothing, including a light jacket or fleece for the chilly mornings and evenings, and breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for the daytime. A sturdy pair of walking shoes or hiking boots is crucial for navigating the uneven terrain. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof jacket or poncho and a hat to shield yourself from the unpredictable weather. Additionally, consider packing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle for sun protection and hydration during your exploration of this iconic archaeological site.

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

In September, Machu Picchu experiences daytime temperatures averaging around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), while nighttime temperatures drop to approximately 7 to 10 degrees Celsius (44 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). These temperatures can vary depending on weather patterns, but visitors can generally expect mild to cool conditions during the day and cooler evenings, making it advisable to bring layers for comfort throughout the day.

Is Machu Picchu Crowded In September?

Machu Picchu typically experiences moderate to high levels of tourist traffic in September. As one of Peru’s most iconic and popular destinations, it attracts visitors from around the globe throughout the year. September marks the end of the peak tourist season, resulting in slightly fewer crowds compared to the preceding months, such as July and August. However, it’s still advisable to anticipate significant foot traffic, especially during weekends and holidays. To maximize your experience and mitigate the crowds, consider visiting early in the day or exploring less frequented areas within the site.

What Is The Weather Like In Machu Picchu In September?

In September, Machu Picchu experiences transitional weather as it moves from the dry season to the wet season. Typically, September sees increasing precipitation compared to earlier months, with occasional rain showers and cloud cover. Temperatures generally range from cool to mild, with daytime highs averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit)

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