Cusco Rainy Season: What to Expect and How to Prepare

🌧️ Cusco in the Rainy Season: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Visiting Cusco during the rainy season might sound challenging, but it’s actually one of the most beautiful and peaceful times to explore the Andes. Between November and March, the Sacred Valley turns lush and vibrant, the air feels fresher, and the crowds thin out — giving you a more authentic experience of Peru.

Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy Cusco, rain or shine.

🌦️ When Is the Rainy Season in Cusco?

The rainy season in Cusco usually runs from November through March.
Mornings are often clear and sunny, while short, intense showers tend to fall in the afternoon or evening.

💡 Travel tip: In December, Cusco’s weather reaches its wettest point, with daytime temperatures around 18°C (64°F) and cooler nights around 8°C (46°F).

🌿 Why You’ll Love Visiting Cusco During the Rain

1. Greener, more photogenic landscapes:
   The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are at their most vibrant, with deep green terraces and misty mountains perfect for photography.

2. Fewer tourists:
   Lower season means more space to explore and often better deals on hotels and tours.

3. A more authentic connection:
   With fewer crowds, you can truly connect with the local culture, meet artisans, and experience daily life in the Andes.

🎒 What to Pack for Cusco’s Rainy Season

Packing smart is the key to staying comfortable:

• Waterproof jacket or poncho – lightweight and easy to carry.

• Water-resistant hiking shoes.

• Quick-dry clothes – ideal for changing weather.

• Plastic or waterproof bag to protect your camera or phone.

• Sunscreen and insect repellent, even on cloudy days.

• A light jacket or fleece for cooler mornings and nights.

🚶‍♀️ Best Tours and Activities During the Rainy Season

Even with rain, Cusco offers plenty of unforgettable experiences. Here are some that are great year-round:

• Sacred Valley Tour: rain enhances the natural colors of the mountains and terraces.

• Maras & Moray Tour: mist and clouds create a mystical, dreamlike atmosphere.

• Cultural workshops in Chinchero or Pisac: learn traditional weaving, pottery, or Peruvian cooking.

• Cusco City Tour: perfect for rainy days — explore temples, museums, and cozy cafés nearby.

☀️ Enjoy Cusco, No Matter the Weather

The rainy season in Cusco isn’t a reason to stay away — it’s an invitation to see the Andes at their most alive. With fewer crowds, greener mountains, and the fresh scent of rain, it’s a side of Peru few travelers truly experience.

So if you’re planning to travel to Cusco in November or December, pack your rain jacket, bring your adventurous spirit, and get ready to fall in love with Peru under the rain.

📍Ready to Explore Cusco, Rain or Shine?

👉 Discover our customized tours through the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and authentic cultural experiences.
Book your next adventure with Cusco Wanderer