Machu Picchu in November

Weather in Machu Picchu in November

Weather is one of the main concerns for travelers planning a trip in November, so understanding the climate patterns is essential.

General Weather Overview

November is considered early rainy season, but conditions remain moderate. Expect:

• Clear or partly cloudy mornings

• Short, scattered showers in the afternoon

• Increasing humidity

• Greener vegetation and vibrant scenery

It’s rare to have full-day continuous rain in November.

Temperature in November

Temperatures are comfortable for trekking and sightseeing.

Rainfall in November

• Average rainfall: 80–120 mm

• Most showers occur in the late afternoon

• Rainfall increases gradually toward the end of the month

• Mornings often remain clear

Fog and Visibility

• Morning fog is frequent but usually temporary

• Visibility fluctuates but mostly clears by mid-morning

• Clouds create dramatic photography conditions

Crowds in Machu Picchu in November

Much Lower Than Dry Season

November is one of the least crowded months of the year, offering:

• Shorter lines at shuttle buses

• Easier access to viewpoints

• Smoother flow inside the circuits

• Better opportunities for photos without heavy crowds

What Travelers Visit in November?

• Couples

• Backpackers

• Nature lovers

• Slow travelers

• Adventurers who don’t mind a bit of rain

The atmosphere around Machu Picchu is far more peaceful and relaxed in November.

Machu Picchu Tickets in November

Availability

With lower tourism activity, tickets are generally easier to secure in November. However, popular options like Huayna Picchu still require planning.

How Early Should You Book?

• Machu Picchu Llaqta (Circuits 1–3): 1–3 weeks in advance

• Huayna Picchu: 4–8 weeks in advance

• Machu Picchu Mountain: 4–6 weeks in advance

Best Ticket Types for November

1. Circuit 2 – Classic Panoramic Route

2. Circuit 1 – Upper Terraces

3. Circuit 3 – Lower Platforms

4. Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu

5. Machu Picchu + Mountain

What Ticket Should You Choose?

• First visit → Circuit 2

• Best views → Machu Picchu Mountain

• Adventure → Huayna Picchu (if slippery conditions don’t bother you)

• Easy exploration → Circuit 1 or 3

Best Time of Day to Visit Machu Picchu in November

Early Morning (6 AM – 9 AM)

• Best chance of clear skies

• Cooler weather

• Fog may appear but often lifts quickly

• Rain is unlikely during early morning hours

Midday (9 AM – 1 PM)

• Warm and comfortable

• Visibility improves

• Moderate humidity

• A good balance of light for photography

Afternoon (1 PM – 5 PM)

• Higher chance of showers

• Fewer tourists

• Dramatic cloud formations

• Ideal for moody, atmospheric photos

Tip: Early morning remains the very best option in November.

Train Travel to Machu Picchu in November

Train Companies Operating

• PeruRail: Expedition, Vistadome, Sacred Valley, Hiram Bingham

• Inca Rail: Voyager, 360°, First Class

When to Book

• November is flexible, but booking 2–3 weeks ahead is ideal.

• Premium trains still sell out on weekends.

Best Train Times

For morning visits:

• 5:05 AM

• 6:10 AM

• 7:45 AM

For afternoon visits:

• 10 AM – 1 PM

Return trips:

• 3:20 PM

• 4:20 PM

• 7:00 PM

Tips for Train Travel in November

• Bring a waterproof backpack cover

• Arrive 30 minutes early

• Keep all tickets on your phone or printed

• Wear layers, including a light rain jacket

Trekking to Machu Picchu in November

Should You Trek in November?

Yes—you can still enjoy trekking in early November. Trails are wetter than in September or October but remain manageable.

Inca Trail Conditions

• Moderate humidity

• Slippery stone steps after rain

• Foggy mornings

• Comfortable temperatures

Permits are easier to find in November, especially mid-month.

Salkantay Trek in November

• Misty mountain views

• Tropical sections are humid

• Slippery descents in jungle areas

• Very green landscapes

Lares Trek in November

• Crisp mornings in high passes

• Cloudy and refreshing weather

• Spectacular cultural interactions

• Fewer trekkers on the route

Choquequirao Trek in November

• Hot canyon areas

• Afternoon rain possible

• Clear views at the archaeological site

Short Inca Trail (2 Days)

• Perfect alternative for wet season

• Arriving at the Sun Gate is magical with the morning fog

• Excellent option for those who want an easier route

What to Pack for Machu Picchu in November

November requires a mix of dry-season and wet-season essentials.

Clothing

• Quick-drying shirts

• Light fleece

• Rain jacket or poncho

• Waterproof hiking shoes

• Comfortable pants

• Hat and sunglasses

Accessories

• Sunscreen

• Mosquito repellent

• Backpack rain cover

• Reusable water bottle

• Quick-dry towel (optional)

Documents

• Passport (required)

• Entrance ticket

• Train tickets

• Hotel confirmations

Pros and Cons of Visiting Machu Picchu in November

Pros

• Very few crowds

• Warm and pleasant temperatures

• Lush green scenery

• Excellent photography conditions

• Lower prices for hotels and services

• Greater ticket availability

Cons

• Occasional afternoon rain

• Slippery trails

• Fog may obscure views temporarily

• Humid conditions in Aguas Calientes

Tips for a Smooth November Visit

Pack Smart for Mixed Weather

Bring a light rain jacket, waterproof footwear and layers.

Enter Early

Early mornings give you:

• Clearer views

• Cooler temperatures

• Lower chance of rain

Stay in Aguas Calientes Overnight

This allows you to:

• Avoid the morning rush

• Have flexibility in choosing entry times

• Enter Machu Picchu at sunrise

Choose the Right Circuit

For November:

• Circuit 2 → Best panoramas

• Circuit 1 → Best for photography

• Circuit 3 → Best paired with Huayna Picchu

Machu Picchu in November for Different Travelers

Families

• Mild weather for children

• Easy circuits available

• Bring rain protection

Couples

• Calm atmosphere

• Beautiful, misty mountain scenery

• Excellent for romantic photos

Solo Travelers

• Great availability in hostels

• Perfect time for quiet exploration

• Easy to meet other travelers on trains and treks

How Many Days Do You Need?

Recommended Duration

• 1 day: Quick visit

• 2 days: Best experience

• 3–5 days: Combine with Sacred Valley or a short trek

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco → Sacred Valley → Aguas Calientes

Day 2: Machu Picchu at sunrise or early morning