Are you planning to visit the Inca’s ancient city? In Viagens Machu Picchu, we’ll be more than glad to give you quick and right assistance. That’s why on this blog, you’ll have some details that can be helpful for you.
What you have to keep in mind are two factors: Cusco's weather and Cusco’s events.
Perhaps you’ve already read some blogs about Cusco’s weather. However, few delve deep into Cusco’s extensive event calendar. We hope this content can help you understand how to enjoy your trip to Cusco whatever season you choose.
Cusco is located 3400 meters above sea level. It’s not only the gateway to Machu Picchu, but it also has enormous historical and cultural significance. Cusco fuses the Inca and Andes Cultures combined with European architecture and traditions spaniard conquerors brought them during Spanish Colonization.
Believe us that you’ll fall in love with walking its colorful and traditional streets made from handmade rocks. While you're there, you can watch the Andean-European style architecture that decorates the city. That’s why no matter what time of the year you are, all of them have their advantages so you can enjoy Cusco to its fullest.
Cusco has mainly two seasons. The rainy season goes from December to March, and the dry season from April to November.
During the rainy season, Cusco has somewhat milder nighttime temperatures. Yet, the cloudy sky and occasional downpours may make it feel very chilly. Rain showers are typically light at this time of year. However, now they are more frequent and can be extremely heavy.
Almost every day, you can usually count on a strong shower in the early afternoon or evening, with sunny moments during the day.
The rain hits the most in January or the month of February. Transportation services may be interrupted, making access difficult. That's why a tour operator like Viagens Machu Picchu can guarantee high-quality service whether the season or time of the year you come to visit us.
The dry season is also the coldest season during nights since temperatures may descend to -2c. On the other side, mornings could be hot, reaching 20c temperatures and with several sunny days. We can say this is the best time for hiking, exploring Cusco City, or visiting archaeological sites.
Tip: Since mornings in Cusco are warm, what you’ll need is a hat, scarf, and a windbreaker. By mid-morning, you’ll notice that the temperature will get hotter so you can remove your jacket or windbreaker but keep your hat and don’t forget the sunscreen, the sun may hit so hard and you may get sunburned.
Cusco is a traditional city and this detail is noticeable in its festivals. You’ll notice several events or festivals in Cusco, so we’ll comment on some of the most important ones:
During Semana Santa (Holy Week), people show religious and cultural traditions that have been passed down for years. It starts in late March and continues into early April.
Monday is the most important day of that week since it represents the beginning of the procession of El Señor de los Temblores (The Lord of the Earthquakes), a crucified Christ with indigenous appearance.
Corpus Christi means “Body of Christ” and is one of the main events in the city. Is a catholic event celebrated 9 weeks after holy week. Peru is almost a Catholic country, so this event has a profound religious and cultural significance. Similar to Semana Santa processions, masses gather in the streets to see elaborate sculptures of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary walk through the town.
Followers decorate the figures with balloons, flowers, and stuffed animals. The devotees carry fifteen finely adorned statues of saints and other holy icons to Plaza de Armas in Cusco's heart during the middle day.
Fiestas Patrias, or in English Independence Day is when Peruvians celebrate their independence from Spain on July 28th. We, Peruvians, celebrate this event gathered with our families eating our food, tasting our drinks, and enojoying our music. During these days you’ll see white and red colors everywhere on the streets.
Christmas in Cusco will give you the chance to see how is the Andean version of this event. The whole city is full of elusive decoration. Around December's first days, “La Plaza de Armas” becomes decorated with nativity animals and illumination.
Now that we have shown you some important festivals in Cusco, What can we say is the most important one, and when’s the best time to visit Cusco? Find it out below!
We saved the best part for the end, so the best time to travel to Cusco when planning your trip is in June because this is the central month of the city. People begin dancing in the streets early in the month, and on June 23 there is an enormous citywide celebration during which all Cusquenos, or residents of Cusco, wear red ponchos. On June 24, Sacsayhuaman and the Plaza de Armas recreate the celebration of Inti Raymi (The Sun’s party).
This festival had a deep religious and cultural significance, due to the Incas worshipped the sun god, Inti, considering it one of the highest gods in their pantheon. The intellectual and artist from Cusco, Faustino Espinoza Navarro, reintroduced the celebration in the 1940s.
Keep in mind that the busiest months in Cusco are June and July, so hotel prices may vary, you can see Cusco’s streets crowded with Peruvian and foreign tourists, that’s why you have to book in advance.
Remember that the weather during this month of the year is hot in the mornings and cold at night, so bring adequate gear for that. Additionally, be mindful of your belongings and a good pair of shoes could be helpful tips if you’re planning to come during this month.
With the right understanding, visiting Cusco can be a worry-free journey. We at Viagens Machu Picchu work constantly to make sure you have everything you need for an awesome holiday in Peru. Do not spend time any longer! Explore our selection of Peru tour packages and start preparing your trip to the home of the Incas!
