Machu Picchu In July: Everything You Need To Know

Visiting Machu Picchu in July is a unique experience. This month is characterized by dry and sunny weather, similar to June and early August, with almost no rainfall. However, July is one of the busiest months of the year, as it coincides with summer vacations in the Northern Hemisphere, attracting tourists from all over the world. Additionally, in Cusco, you can enjoy local festivities like the Independence Day parade on July 27, which adds a special cultural touch to your trip.

Note: Did you know that starting in 2024, you must choose a specific circuit to visit Machu Picchu? At Life Expeditions, we help you select the best itinerary based on your needs. Check out our tours:

The Best Time To Visit Machu Picchu In July

The best time to visit Machu Picchu in July is at 6 a.m. or after 2 p.m. In the morning, the weather is cool, and there are fewer people, making it ideal for taking photos without crowds. In the afternoon, most visitors have already left, and park rangers are usually more flexible, allowing you to enjoy the site for a longer time.

Machu Picchu In July: Things You Should Know

  • Tickets Sell Out Quickly: Machu Picchu tickets sell out fast in July, especially during Peru’s mid-year vacations, which coincide with Independence Day (July 27 and 28).
  • Extreme Temperatures: Daytime temperatures can reach 25°C (77°F), but at night, they can drop to 9°C (48°F).
  • Difficulty Getting Last-Minute Tickets: It’s almost impossible to get last-minute tickets. The only option is often combined tickets for Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain, though these don’t allow you to take the classic postcard photo.
  • Advance Reservations: Tickets for early morning hours sell out a month in advance.
  • Great Time for Hiking: July is perfect for treks like the 4-Day Inca Trail.

Pros Of Visiting Machu Picchu In July

  • Stunning Views: Clear skies and sunshine provide incredible photo opportunities.
  • Recommended Hikes: Routes to the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu Mountain, and Huayna Picchu offer spectacular views.
  • No Rain: You won’t have to worry about rain during your visit.
  • All Routes Open: In July, all routes, including Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, are accessible.

Cons Of Visiting Machu Picchu In July

  • Intense Sun Radiation: The sun is strong, especially on panoramic trains and inside the park.
  • Long Lines: Queues for buses and restrooms can be very long.
  • Crowds: It’s hard to get good photos due to the large number of visitors.
  • Fully Booked Hotels: Accommodations are often fully booked.

Tips For Visiting Machu Picchu In July

  1. Book Huayna Picchu in Advance: If you want to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain, book at least 3 months in advance.
  2. Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun.
  3. Train Ticket Reservations: Secure your train tickets in advance, especially if you plan to return early to Cusco.
  4. Proper Clothing: Dress in layers, as temperatures vary greatly between day and night. Bring a jacket, gloves, and a hat for cold nights.
  5. Plan Your Return: Leave the park early to avoid long lines for the return bus.

Ticket Availability In July

  • Circuit 2: Sells out 3 months in advance.
  • Circuit 3: Usually sells out a month before.
  • Circuit 1: Typically sells out two weeks before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is July a Good Time to Visit Machu Picchu?
Yes, July is ideal due to its dry and mild weather, but it’s peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Are Guided Tours Still Available in July?
Yes, we offer guided tours year-round, including July.

Is Machu Picchu Open?
Yes, Machu Picchu is open year-round.

How Rainy is Machu Picchu in July?
July is part of the dry season, with minimal rainfall.

What Should I Wear to Visit Machu Picchu in July?
Dress in layers, wear hiking boots, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What’s the Average Temperature in Machu Picchu in July?
Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 21°C (64°F – 70°F), and nighttime temperatures drop to 4°C – 7°C (39°F – 45°F).

Is Machu Picchu Crowded in July?
Yes, July is one of the busiest months due to the favorable weather and summer vacations.

Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, but it requires planning. From booking tickets in advance to preparing for the weather and crowds, every detail matters. If you want to make the most of your trip, don’t hesitate to contact us.

If you need help planning your trip to Cusco during these dates, feel free to reach out. At Life Expeditions, we’ll gladly help you organize an unforgettable experience.

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We hope this guide has been helpful! Don’t forget to book in advance and prepare to enjoy one of the world’s wonders at its best.

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