BEST TIME TO VISIT

When to travel to Choquequirao and Vilcabamba based on weather, trail conditions, and your type of experience

Quick Summary

Dry Season (May – October) The best time to visit.

Between May and October it barely rains in the Peruvian highlands. The skies are clear, the views are spectacular, and the trails remain dry and safe. This is the preferred period for most trekkers and when all of our tours are available.

Typical weather:

• Sunny days with temperatures of 15–22°C
• Cold nights, especially at altitude (can drop to -5°C at mountain passes)
• Very little chance of rain
• Clear skies, ideal for photography

Advantages:

• Best trail conditions
• Panoramic views without clouds
• Lower risk of landslides
• All tours available, including routes to Vilcabamba
• Spectacular starry nights

Disadvantages:

• Higher demand (although Choquequirao is never crowded)
• Standard prices without discounts
• Very cold nights at high-altitude campsites

Specific months:

Transition Season (April and November) A good option with some precautions.

These months mark the change between seasons. The weather is variable: you can have perfect days followed by a rainy afternoon. The trails are in good condition but you need to be prepared for anything.

Typical weather:

• Mostly sunny days with clouds in the afternoon
• Occasional showers, generally short
• Pleasant temperatures (10–20°C)
• Green and flowering landscapes

Advantages:

• Fewer visitors than during peak season
• Prices with 10–15% discounts
• Greener and more flowering landscapes
• More orchids and flowers along the trail
• Waterfalls with more water

Disadvantages:

• Unpredictable weather
• Possible rain requiring waterproof gear
• Some trails may be wet
• In November, routes to Vilcabamba begin to close

Recommendations:

• Bring good quality waterproof gear
• Be mentally prepared for weather changes
• April is better than November for long routes

Rainy Season (December – March) Possible with limitations.

The rainy season brings frequent precipitation, especially in the afternoons. The trails become slippery and some routes close for safety. However, the Classic Trek to Choquequirao and the Luxury Glamping continue to operate.

Typical weather:

• Frequent rain, especially in the afternoon
• Warmer temperatures (12–18°C even at night)
• Cloudy skies for much of the day
• High humidity

Which tours operate:

• Classic Trek 4D/3N: Yes, with precautions
• Luxury Glamping 5D/4N: Yes
• Routes to Vilcabamba: No (risk of landslides)
• Inca Trilogy: No

Advantages:

• Discounts of 15–20% on prices
• Practically no other tourists
• Lush nature, vegetation at its most vibrant
• Impressive waterfalls
• A more adventurous experience

Disadvantages:

• Limited views due to clouds and mist
• Slippery trails
• Wet clothing and gear
• Greater risk of blisters due to humidity
• No photos with clear skies

Month to avoid: February February is the rainiest month. Rain is intense and constant. We do not recommend trekking in February unless you are an experienced trekker willing to face difficult conditions.

Conditions by Zone

Weather varies depending on altitude and area:

Apurímac Canyon (1,500 – 2,500 m)

• Warmer and drier than the higher zones
• Less frequent rain even during the wet season
• Dry slope vegetation

Choquequirao (3,050 m)

• Mild climate during the day
• Cold nights
• Frequent morning mist that clears by midday

Mountain Passes (4,000 – 4,650 m)

• Intense cold, especially in the morning
• Possible snow or hail at any time of year
• Strong winds at the passes

Vilcabamba / High Jungle (1,000 – 2,000 m)

• Warm and humid year-round
• More frequent rain than in the highlands
• More pronounced rainy season (which is why it closes Dec–Mar)

Our Recommendation

If you can choose any date: June, July, August, or September. Ideal weather, spectacular views.

If you want to avoid crowds: April, May, or October. Good weather with fewer people.

If you are looking for the best price: April, November, or December (Classic Trek only).

If you want to do the Inca Trilogy: June to September only.

If you have limited flexibility: Any month from April to November is a good option. We adapt our gear and expectations to the expected weather.