Welcome to Machu Picchu MP! In this post, we will be discussing the experience of visiting Machu Picchu in January. January is often considered the off-season for tourism in Machu Picchu, which means fewer crowds, cheaper prices and a more intimate experience.
The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu is a must-see destination for any traveler, and visiting during the month of January can offer a unique and memorable experience. The weather in January can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can still enjoy the beautiful surroundings and rich history of the site.
In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Machu Picchu in January, from what to expect weather-wise, to the best time of day to visit, and even what to pack for your trip. So, let’s start planning your January adventure to Machu Picchu!
Machu Picchu in January – What to expect?
- Rainy and wet conditions: January is the rainy season in Cusco, so expect to encounter some rainy days and muddy trails during your visit. Be prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Limited visibility: Rain and cloud cover can limit visibility of the ruins, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Closed trails: Some hiking trails like Inca Trail, Inca jungle trek or Salkantay Trek may be closed due to safety concerns, check ahead for availability and plan accordingly.
- Crowds: January is peak tourist season, so expect to encounter many other visitors. Plan to book tickets and tours in advance.
- Altitude: Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430 meters, visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Take necessary precautions and acclimatize before visiting.
Weather & temperature at Machu Picchu in January
January is considered to be the rainy season in Machu Picchu, so expect to encounter some rainy days during your visit. The daytime temperature is typically around 15°C (59°F) with cooler temperatures at night. However, the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly, so be prepared for a range of conditions with appropriate clothing and footwear. Although the rain and fog can be a challenge, it also gives a mystical aspect to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The mists can create an ethereal and enchanting atmosphere that adds to the mystical experience of visiting this ancient site. Keep in mind that the rainy season can make the hiking trails muddy and slippery, so be cautious during your hikes.
Read more about the Weather at Machu Picchu along the year.
What is the best time of day to visit Machu Picchu in January?
The best time of day to visit Machu Picchu in January would be early in the morning. This is because the site can get quite crowded later in the day, and the morning light is considered to be the best for taking pictures. Additionally, the weather is typically cooler in the morning, making it more comfortable for hiking and exploring the site. Visiting Machu Picchu early in the morning also means that you will have more time to explore the site before the crowds arrive. It is important to note that the site opens at 6:00 am and the last entry is at 4:00 pm.
Pros of visiting Machu Picchu in January
- Crowds: January is low tourist season in Cusco, so expect to encounter few visitors.
- Temperature: The daytime temperature is usually around 15°C (59°F), which is comfortable for sightseeing and hiking.
- Mystical atmosphere: The mists that are common during the rainy season can create an ethereal and enchanting atmosphere that adds to the mystical experience of visiting this ancient site.
- Availability: January is not the peak tourist season for Machu Picchu, which means that there may be more availability for entry tickets and guided tours.
Cons of visiting Machu Picchu in January
- Rainy season: January is considered the rainy season in Machu Picchu, so visitors can expect to encounter some rainy days during their visit.
- Limited Visibility: Rain and cloud cover can limit visibility of the ruins, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Muddy trails: The rain can make the hiking trails around Machu Picchu muddy and slippery, which can make the hike more challenging.
- Closed trails: Some hiking trails may be closed during the rainy season due to safety concerns.
- Altitude: Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430 meters, visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Take necessary precautions and acclimatize before visiting.
Machu Picchu Tickets in January
If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu in January, it’s crucial to be aware of a unique aspect regarding ticket purchases for this month. Unlike other times of the year, tickets for January are not available far in advance. This is because the Ministry of Culture in Cusco, which is responsible for managing these tickets, typically releases their availability only in mid-December.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
If you are planning your trip for January, it’s essential to stay alert for updates from the Ministry of Culture and be ready to purchase your tickets as soon as they become available. This situation can create some uncertainty, but it’s a process that has been established specifically for this month.
Update for January 2024
As of today, December 21, it’s important to note that tickets for January 2024 are still not available. This delay is due to internal issues within the Ministry of Culture. Therefore, travelers are advised to stay informed through official channels and be prepared to act quickly once the ticket availability is announced.
Plan your trip now!
Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley 2 days
Things to do in Machu Picchu in January
- Explore the ruins: Machu Picchu is the main attraction, and exploring the ancient Inca citadel is a must-do. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the site, or wander around on your own to take in the stunning views.
- Hike to the Sun Gate: The trail to the Sun Gate offers breathtaking views of the Machu Picchu citadel. Hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds and see the sunrise over the ruins. Keep in mind that some trails may be closed during the rainy season for safety reasons, so check ahead for availability.
- Visit the Inca Bridge: The Inca Bridge is a narrow stone walkway that hangs over a deep gorge. It’s a popular spot for adventure-seekers, but it can be closed during the rainy season.
- Take a dip in the hot springs: Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu, has several natural hot springs where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
- Visit the Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballón: This museum provides an in-depth look at the history and culture of the Incas, and it is a great way to learn more about Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Take the opportunity to try some of the local Peruvian cuisine in Aguas Calientes or Cusco.
- Go for a walk in the cloud forest: The cloud forest is a unique ecosystem that surrounds Machu Picchu, it is home to a wide variety of plants, animals, and birds.
Holiday Events in Machu Picchu during January
- New Year’s Eve celebrations: Many towns and cities in Peru, including Cusco and Aguas Calientes, host New Year’s Eve celebrations with fireworks and live music.
- Día de los Reyes Magos: January 6th is the day of the Three Kings, a Christian holiday that is celebrated throughout Peru with parades, music, and traditional foods.
Foods in season in Machu Picchu in January
- Quinoa: This ancient grain is grown in the Andes and is a staple in Peruvian cuisine.
- Potatoes: Peru is home to over 4,000 varieties of potatoes, many of which are grown in the region surrounding Machu Picchu.
- Cuy: Cuy is a traditional Peruvian dish made from roast guinea pig.
- Lúcuma: Lúcuma is a tropical fruit that grows in the Andes, it has a creamy texture and a sweet, maple-like flavor.
- Aji: Aji is a type of chili pepper that is commonly used in Peruvian cuisine.
- Pisco: Pisco is a type of brandy that is made from grapes and is popular in Peru.
- Coffee: Coffee is grown in the Andes and is a popular drink in Peru.
- Chocolate: Chocolate is a traditional drink made from cocoa beans and is enjoyed throughout Peru.
How to get to Machu Picchu in January
The most popular way to get to Machu Picchu is by taking the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to the Machu Picchu citadel. From there, you can take a bus or hike up to the citadel. Keep in mind that during the rainy season, road closures and delays on transportation to Machu Picchu are possible, so it’s recommended to have alternate transportation plans in place.
What to pack?
- Rain gear: Pack a waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes as it’s the rainy season.
- Warm layers: The temperature can drop quickly, especially in the evening, so pack a warm jacket or sweater.
- Sunscreen and hat: Even though it’s the rainy season, the sun can still be strong, so protect your skin from UV rays.
- Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and bring snacks to keep your energy levels up during your visit.
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful views of Machu Picchu.
- First aid kit: Basic first aid items such as pain killers, band aids, and diarrhea medicine.
What to wear?
- Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes that can handle the wet and muddy trails during the rainy season. Hiking boots or trail shoes are ideal.
- Waterproof jacket: Bring a waterproof jacket to keep you dry in case of rain.
- Quick-dry clothes: Pack clothes made of quick-drying materials, such as synthetic fabrics, which will be more comfortable if you get wet.
- Warm layers: Bring a warm jacket or sweater to wear in the evening when temperatures drop.
- Sun protection: Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.
- Breathable fabrics: Avoid heavy cotton fabrics, which can get heavy and uncomfortable when wet.
- Rain pants: Pack a pair of rain pants to keep you dry in case of heavy rain.
It’s important to be prepared for the weather and conditions in Machu Picchu in January. In addition to the above recommendations, it’s always a good idea to bring an extra set of clothes, just in case you get wet. Remember to stay hydrated and bring snacks to keep your energy levels up during your visit.
Read more at: Packing List for Machu Picchu.
Recommendations
- Plan ahead: January is the rainy season in Machu Picchu, so plan ahead and be prepared for potential road closures and transportation delays.
- Book in advance: January is a peak tourist month, so book your train tickets, hotel reservations, and tour guide services in advance to ensure availability.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Bring waterproof and quick-drying clothing, warm layers, and comfortable hiking shoes to stay dry and warm during your visit.
- Bring a rain jacket: Rainy season means more rain, and it can be heavy, so bring a rain jacket.
- Pack a day pack: Bring a small day pack with water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, and any other essentials you may need during your visit.
- Start early: Machu Picchu gets crowded quickly, so start your day as early as possible to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best views.
- Bring cash: Credit cards are not widely accepted in the area, so bring cash for food, souvenirs, and any other expenses.
- Be flexible: Be prepared for unexpected changes in weather and plan your activities and itinerary accordingly.
- Check trail conditions: Some hiking trails may be closed or difficult to navigate during the rainy season, so check trail conditions before you go.
- Respect the sacred site: Remember that Machu Picchu is a sacred site. Show respect by following the rules and guidelines.
Faqs
January is considered a shoulder season for Machu Picchu, meaning that it is not peak tourist season but it is also not the low season. The weather is generally mild and crowds may not be as heavy as in peak season.
Yes, Machu Picchu is open to visitors throughout the year.
The temperature at Machu Picchu in January is generally mild. It can range from high 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit during the day, and can drop to the high 40s to low 50s at night.
You should dress in layers, as the temperature can change throughout the day. It is advisable to wear a jacket or sweater for the early morning and evening, as well as comfortable walking shoes for the hike. It is also recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
What are the alternative months to visit Machu Picchu?
- Visiting Machu Picchu in November
- Visiting Machu Picchu in December
- Visiting Machu Picchu in February
- Visiting Machu Picchu in March