Ausangate Trek Weather The Ultimate Guide
You have booked your trip to Cusco, and now you’re excited to explore the majesty of the Ausangate Trek + Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu. However, it’s understandable that you want clarity about the weather before deciding and purchasing your Trip.
The Cusco region is known for its unpredictable weather. One moment you may experience rain, and the next minute, intense sunshine. But don’t worry; specific wet and dry seasons can influence your travel experience.
Throughout The Ausangate Trail, you will also encounter diverse climates, from the snow-capped mountain peaks to the Rainbow Mountain.
We have prepared a definitive guide to the Ausangate Trail weather to help you make the right decision and provide you with all the meteorological information you need for your adventure in Cusco. ln this comprehensive guide, you will find detailed descriptions of monthly temperatures and valuable tips that will allow you to make themost of your journey.
Consult our essential guide to plan your Ausanagte Trail experience and prepare for a unigue adventure.
What is the Best Time to do The Ausangate Trail + Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu?
The best time of the year to enjoy the Ausangate Trek and experience the best weather are from April to October however the other season are still beautiful. The driest seasons of the year are between May and August, which are very hot during the day but very cold at night.
Many travelers like to plan their excursions around other events in Cusco, and june is the prime month. During this time, the imperial city of Cusco comes alive with jubilant festivities and the breathtaking celebration of lnti Raymi or know as Sun festival, which is an inca festival that will leave you in awe.
Cusco can be more crowded during this time because of the festivals, in that case you need to book your hotel, restaurant and tours in advance. Each season of the year is unique with its different details, therefore it is always good to find out about the weather before taking your excursion and thus prepare for your Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.
The Ausangate Trail in the Rainy Season: What to Expect?
The Ausangate Trail, the weather is unpredictable during the rainy season. However, being prepared is crucial. We recommend carrying a lightweight rain poncho or Waterproof jacket in your backpack. Additionally, it’s important to note that there will be days when it doesn’t rain at all.
It’s worth mentioning that January and February are the rainiest months on the trail, and many hiking Tour companies choose not to operate during this time. As well as the Inca Trail is also closed in February for maintenance due to the risk of slips and falls.
Down below, you Will find detailed information about what to expect during the rainy seasoin each month of the year.
The Ausangate Trail in November
November ends the dry season and start the Rainy season in Cusco and along the Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu. During your visit in Cusco you will experience rain, cold, and sometimes intense heat as well as on the Ausangate Trail you will also experience rain, wind, cold and sometimes intense heat, so you must be prepared for the 4 seasons.
The Ausangate Trail in December
This month starts summer throughout the country and is when most national travelers and Latin Americas vacation. The Rain is almost every day. Don’t forget to bring waterproof gear.
The Ausangate Trail in January
January is one of the rainiest months, in fact you will experience all four seasons at any time of the day so you should be prepared. There are days or even weeks when the days will be hot with clear skies. Each season of the year is unique and January has its magical touch.
The Ausangate Trail in February
February is the rainiest month of the year along the Ausangate Trek. Like all seasons of the year, it has its magical touch and February will show you another side of the Andes since everything will be green with abundant water. Don’t forget to bring waterproof gear.
The Ausangate Trail in March
The season for travelers starts again and you will meet many travelers in Machu Picchu however you don’t meet anyone on the Ausangate Trail. The heavy rainfall continues throughout March and you will expect all the 4 season during your trip. The Ausanagte Trail is a little drier this month on the ground however you don’t forget the rain gear.
The Ausangate Trail in Abril
This is the end of the rain season however you will be expecting some rain on the Ausangate Trail, Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu. April is the beginning of a new season of the year, where there will be plenty of sun and the days will be hot as well as there will also be rain on some days and therefore you should still be prepared for everything, but it’s far less wet. Enjoy this season, it is one of the most beautiful one.
The Ausangate Trail in Dry Season: What to Expect?
The dry season in Cusco runs from April to October. During those days the weather is sunny during the day and cold at night. Rains are very rare in those months. May, June, July and August are the driest months of the year.
So these are the best months to visit the city of Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Ausangate trek, the Rainbow Mountain, Humantay lake, the Inca Rope Bridge known as Qeswachaka and much more. In these months you will be able to appreciate the best views of the Andes with the spectacular views of the Inca ruins but there will be many people in Machu Picchu because it is the highest season. Along The Ausangate Trail, you will not meet many travelers, you’ll meet mostly locals.
Planning is essential when traveling during the dry season, as the demand is high and everything gets booked in advance. We recommend making your reservations at least three months in advance to ensure you secure spots for the trek, permits, camping spots, restaurants and of course to get the right team for your trip.
Don’t forget if you want to climb the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain you need to book at least three months in advance to get your spots.
Ausangate Trail is also known as peruvian kilimanjaro because of the high altitude.
Down below, we provide a breakdown of each months during the dry season on the Ausangate Trail
The Ausangate Trail in May
May is officially the dry season where you will enjoy amazing views what you were expecting since you booked your trip to Ausangate. It’s definitely a great time to do the Ausangate Trail, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu, it’s even better because you’re not going to meet any travelers on the way, we are sure you will have an amazing time down here with our team Runas Expeditions.
During the day is hot but during the night is cold.
The Ausangate Trail in June
June is the driest month of the year however you don’t trust this crazy weather in the Andes, so you still need to be prepared for the four season just in case. During the day it can be 20°C and during the night is about -5°C.
Don’t forget Cusco city celebrates its anniversary and it’s very busy throughout the city, so we recommend you book your trip in advance. You’ll see larger crowds at Machu Picchu but not on the Trail.
The Ausangate Trail in July
Remember that Peru is located in the southern hemisphere therefore in the northern hemisphere they have a season opposite to ours. and Cusco is located in the Andes where the season is dry and cold.
July gets even colder at night, so you’ll need to make sure you have a very warm sleeping bag and lots of cozy clothes for your first nigh, second night and third night in the Ausangate Trail. In the middle of the day though, the high sun will keep you warm-use high SPF sunscreen for protection. There are patriotic festivities this month, so the city is still busy, but not the Trail.
The Ausangate Trail in August
Winter is drawing to a close, but nighttime temperatures on the high-altitude parts of the Ausangate Trail will still be chilly. The days are getting warmer, and there’s still very little rainfall. On the way, you can expect outstanding views along the route with clear skies.
Don’t forget to bring rain gear just in case.
The Ausangate Trail in September
September is considered one of the best times to visit Ausangate Trail, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu. Almost at the end of the high season, the city recovers and the weather is pleasant. Temperatures gradually begin to rise and the days become sunnier.
This is a great time of the year to do The Ausangate Trek.
The Ausangate Trail in October
This is the warmest month of the year on the Ausangate Trail. The skies are mostly blue and clear, but you might experience light showers. This is the last time of the year to get optimal views of the Ausangate Trail included the famous Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu before it gets cloudier.
The experience on the trail is stunning since you will meet mostly locals
What is the Average Temperature of The Ausangate Trail?
The temperature doesn’t fluctuate too much. The average temperatures at the first campsite Pukamoco and in the higher altitude sections are around 20°C in the day (68°F) and then close to or below -5°C(23°F) at night.
As you head down to Sacred Valley, it gets much warmer, and you won’t be so cold at night. It’Il likely be around 26°C(80°F) on the day.
What is the Coldest Month in The Ausangate Trail?
During the dry season is the coldest time which is from May to July.
To enjoy this winter experience, we recommend arriving well-prepared. It is essential to have a warm sleeping bag (-15°C) and multiple layers of warm clothing. This way, you will be protected from the intense cold at night. However, despite the low temperatures at night, the days remain fairly warm.
Does the Weather in The Ausangate Trail affect Flights?
Planning your trip to Ausangate Trail, it’s important to note that flying directly to that destination is impossible as flights land in Cusco. However, it’s important to consider the weather in Cusco, Peru, as it can affect flights. Nevertheless, this is usualy a minor issue as airlines will provide alternative flights, or you may need to wait until the rain passes.
We advise you to stay informed about the weather conditions and any flight updates through the official channels of the airlines before your trip. Remember that while the Weather may impact flights to Cusco, measures and solutions are in place to ensure that your journey to The Ausangate Trail is safe and satisfactory.
