Weather in Machu Picchu in December

Is December a Good Month to Visit Machu Picchu?

December marks the start of the wet season in the Andes, but it’s still a great time to visit Machu Picchu if you:

• prefer fewer crowds

• want lush green landscapes

• enjoy warmer temperatures

• want lower prices on hotels and flights

Many travelers prefer December because Machu Picchu looks greener, mistier, and more mystical than during the dry season.

🌦️ Weather Overview for Machu Picchu in December

Here is what you can realistically expect:

🌡️ Temperatures

• Daytime: 18°C – 22°C (64°F – 72°F)

• Night: 10°C – 12°C (50°F – 54°F)

Warm and humid — very comfortable for hiking.

🌧️ Rain

December brings frequent light-to-moderate rain, often:

• short afternoon showers

• misty mornings

• cloud cover that comes and goes

Downpours happen, but they are usually brief.

🌤️ Sunshine

You will still get sunny or partially sunny mornings, perfect for photos of Machu Picchu without harsh shadows.

🧭 Pros and Cons of Visiting in December

✔️ Pros

• Fewer tourists → easier photos and more relaxed experience

• Lush green mountains everywhere

• Warm weather (no freezing mornings)

• Great month for cultural experiences

• Good prices for hotels and tours

❌ Cons

• Increased chances of rain

• Clouds may block some viewpoints temporarily

• Trails can be muddy in some areas

But overall → December is still one of the most magical months to visit.

🏯 What Machu Picchu Looks Like in December

Expect:

• mystical fog rolling over the ruins

• clouds that reveal and hide the mountains in seconds

• vibrant green landscapes perfect for photography

• fewer crowds compared to June–August

• llamas walking freely around the terraces

For many travelers, December creates the most cinematic version of Machu Picchu.

🥾 Is December Good for Hiking Machu Picchu?

Yes — but with conditions.

Best hiking options in December:

1. Huayna Picchu

• Slippery but open

• Amazing clouds and valley views

• Requires good shoes

2. Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña)

• Better on clear mornings

• Less slippery than Huayna Picchu

3. Short Inca Trail (2 Days)

• Open and great in December

• Less mud than longer treks

• Includes entry to Machu Picchu next day

🎒 What to Pack for Machu Picchu in December

This is extremely important:

Essentials:

✔ Waterproof jacket
✔ Lightweight layers
✔ Breathable hiking clothes
✔ Waterproof hiking shoes
✔ Rain cover for backpack
✔ Sunscreen (UV is strong even with clouds)
✔ Insect repellent
✔ Reusable water bottle

Optional but helpful:

✔ Travel poncho
✔ Extra socks
✔ Microfiber towel
✔ Ziplock bags for electronics

Being prepared = enjoying December with no issues.

🚂 How to Get to Machu Picchu in December

Transportation is exactly the same as the rest of the year:

✔ Train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy → Aguas Calientes

✔ Shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu

We recommend booking train tickets early because holiday travel increases demand the week of Christmas and New Year.

⛰️ 8. The Best Treks to Do in December (Very Important)

Some treks are NOT ideal during heavy rain.

Here’s the professional recommendation:

⭐ BEST Treks in December

🟩 Lares Trek to Machu Picchu (Perfect for rainy season)

• Less mud

• More cultural

• Safe in rain

• Beautiful green valleys

👉 Ideal for families, beginners, and travelers wanting an authentic Andean experience.

🟩 Choquequirao Trek (For advanced hikers)

• More challenging

• Remote and wild

• Amazing for photographers

• Fewer tourists even in December

🟩 Huchuy Qosqo Trek

• Short

• Less affected by rain

• Great cultural experience

❌ Avoid in December (High rain areas):

• Salkantay Trek (very muddy + slippery passes)

• Ausangate Trek (storms + snow risk)

🌈 Final Thoughts: Is December a Good Time to Visit Machu Picchu?

YES — December is a beautiful month to visit Machu Picchu, especially if you want:

• lush greenery

• dramatic clouds and magical mist

• fewer crowds

• warm temperatures

• cultural holiday atmosphere

Just pack smart, expect some rain, and you’ll enjoy one of the most stunning versions of Machu Picchu.

🎟️ 10. Recommended Tours & Treks for December 

Add these at the end in Elementor:

⭐ Lares Trek 4 Days – Cultural Route to Machu Picchu

→ Best trek for December.

⭐ Choquequirao Trek – The Cradle of Gold

→ For experienced hikers.

⭐ Short Inca Trail 2 Days

→ Perfect for rainy season + guaranteed entry to Machu Picchu.

⭐ Machu Picchu Full Day Tour

→ Ideal for travelers visiting in December.