When to Go

V!VA User‘s Description

To avoid the large package tours and hoards of independent travelers descending on the ruins, you should avoid the peak months of June to August, and instead opt to travel from April to May or September to October. Also, try to avoid Peruvian holidays from July 28 to August 10 and the days around Cusco's Inti Raymi festival, which starts on June 24. In general, Sundays are the least busy because this is the day most package tours visit the Pisac and Chinchero markets. You may also encounter fewer crowds on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays. Another way to avoid crowds is to stay overnight in nearby Aguas Calientes and arrive early in the morning before the train crowds arrive around 10 a.m. At noon, when Machu Picchu is the most crowded, explore other attractions like Huayna Picchu, the Temple of the Moon, or the Inca Bridge.