What Is It Like To Hike Machu Picchu In December?

December is a pleasant and relatively temperate month in Machu Picchu, as temperatures are not too extreme between day and night. Although the area is prone to downpours during this time of year, it is still entirely possible to visit Machu Picchu in December. Those looking for a more relaxed holiday may find this to be the best time of year to visit, however, it is important to note that the Christmas and New Year period will likely see an influx of both Peruvian and foreign tourists looking to take advantage of the holidays.

Best Time To Hike Machu Picchu In December

Visiting Machu Picchu in December is an ideal time if you plan to be there between 9 am and 12 pm. During the early morning hours, the site typically remains enveloped in mist, so if you arrive at 6 am, you may have to wait three hours before being able to take a classic shot. Additionally, it is likely to rain during the afternoon, so it is best to plan your visit for the morning hours. By arriving at Machu Picchu during this time of day, you will be able to take in all of its stunning beauty with minimal disruption from the elements.

Pros Of Hiking Machu Picchu In December

Fewer People: In December, however, the amount of tourists visiting Machu Picchu is much lower due to the wet season. This is the perfect time to visit if you want to experience the beauty of Machu Picchu without the crowds. The 4-day and 2-day trails are especially quiet due to the wet season.

Traveling to Machu Picchu in December can provide a more relaxed and enjoyable experience than at other times of the year. The famous Inca citadel, located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America, and the crowds of visitors often detract from the magical atmosphere that should be present around the ancient ruins.

However, due to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, December is actually the start of the wet season in Peru. This means that the chances of having a more peaceful and tranquil journey to Machu Picchu are significantly higher than at other times of the year. In addition, the trails in December are typically less crowded, providing travelers with a more relaxed hike and a greater chance of having a more authentic experience. Therefore, if you’re looking for a more tranquil and enjoyable journey to one of the world’s most iconic destinations, it’s definitely worth considering a December trip to Machu Picchu.

Photos Look Better: Photographs become even more picturesque when the clouds create an interesting formation and the sun peeks through the fog.

Photographing Machu Picchu when the clouds are low and the sun is shining through in certain areas can add a beautiful, atmospheric effect to the shot. Although many photographers are looking for the classic bird’s eye view of the ruins, those who choose to shoot during the wet season will need to be prepared with a waterproof camera. The rain can make it difficult to get a clear shot, as the ruins are often completely covered by the clouds. Nevertheless, the challenge of shooting during these conditions can also be rewarding, providing unique and interesting results.

Greenery Is More Vibrant In December: The lush and vibrant vegetation that adorns Machu Picchu is a sight to behold. From the colorful lilies to the exotic orchids, the area is filled with a variety of plants that bring life to the area. The fresh and lively atmosphere is further enhanced by the deep green of the surrounding foliage, making the landscape even more mesmerizing. Whether you are an avid nature lover or simply looking for a spectacular view, a visit to Machu Picchu is sure to provide you with a breathtaking experience.

Love The Rain? Go In December: For those of us who love the rain, Machu Picchu in late December is a great destination to visit. The lush scenery and natural beauty of the area are something to behold, and the rain that falls during this time of year only enhances the views.

The misty atmosphere and the sound of the raindrops hitting the ground add to the ambiance, making it a truly magical place. The clouds that hang low in the sky create a stunning backdrop, while the vibrant colors of the vegetation contrast beautifully against the muted tones of the clouds. Hiking through the area offers a chance to take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest, while also providing a chance to see some of the wildlife that resides there. With the combination of lush greenery, misty atmosphere, and the sound of the rain, Machu Picchu in late December can be an unforgettable experience.

Things To Know About Hiking Machu Picchu In December

The temperatures at Machu Picchu can range from a sultry high of 26°C (78.8°F) to a much cooler low of 13°C (55.4°F).
Visiting Machu Picchu at the beginning of the month offers a unique experience, as the crowds are still low due to the rainy season. This makes it the perfect time to explore the ruins and appreciate the beauty of the Incan civilization without the bustling crowds. As the month progresses, the crowds start to increase, peaking during the last 12 days of December due to the numerous Christmas festivals held in the area. It is still possible to enjoy the magnificent views of the mountain and its ruins during this time, but it is best to be prepared for the crowds.
As December rolls around, travelers can take advantage of some amazing offers from Machu Picchu hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. From discounted rates on lodging to special meal deals and exclusive tour packages, there are plenty of ways to make the most of a trip to this stunning destination. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family adventure, there are plenty of ways to make the most of a winter holiday in Peru.
If you are looking to take a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, you should take note that services from Cusco’s Poroy train station will cease operating at the end of the month due to the potential risk of a landslide on the route. All the trains will instead depart from Ollantaytambo, meaning you will need to take a vehicle from Cusco to Ollantaytambo if you want to reach your destination. As such, it is important to plan ahead and make sure that you arrive at the appropriate train station in plenty of time.
If you find yourself arriving at Machu Picchu in the midst of a heavy downpour, don’t despair. Take shelter at the café close to the entrance or in the Sanctuary Lodge hotel cafeteria until the rain passes. This usually won’t take longer than an hour or two, so you won’t have to wait too long before you can enjoy the ancient Incan ruins and all that they have to offer. Once the rain has passed, you can marvel at the beauty of the site without having to worry about getting drenched in the process.

Hiking Machu Picchu In December

It is definitely doable to experience a Machu Picchu hike in the month of December. You must consider how you’ll manage with a bit of rainfall and mud. During this time, the trails will be much less populated and you’ll have the opportunity to explore different sections of the ancient ruins without the crowds (depending on what time you arrive). If you choose to hike Machu Picchu in December, you will have the opportunity to experience the ruins in a unique and peaceful way.

Weather can often be a concern for photographers hoping to get the perfect shot. While there are days when rain and clouds bring a certain atmosphere, photographers will more than likely get one clear day to take their pictures. Crowd cover, however, can still be an issue. With that in mind, photographers should seize the opportunity when they have a clear day to capture the beauty of their surroundings.

Remember to plan ahead when booking a trek to Machu Picchu in December, as permits for the Inca Trail must be secured in advance – even during the wet season. It is important to obtain more information on Inca Trail permits and hiking availability prior to embarking on your journey.