Greetings from Cusco, the enchanting gateway to Machu Picchu! As your local guide and wordsmith, we are thrilled to share insights into the unique experience that awaits you when exploring Machu Picchu in February. Let’s embark on a journey filled with vibrant landscapes, intriguing festivals, and the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Weather Insights
In February, Machu Picchu experiences its rainy season, but fear not – this is when the magic happens. The iconic Inca Trail takes a brief pause for maintenance, resulting in fewer crowds. The ruins, amidst the heaviest rains of the year, reveal themselves refreshingly empty. The weather, with highs around 64°F (18°C) and lows around 43°F (6°C), might bring mud and a chance of landslides, but it also paints Machu Picchu in a lush, otherworldly beauty.
Trekking Opportunities
While the Inca Trail takes a break, consider doing other treks, such as the Salkantay Trek. This opens up interesting possibilities to explore less traveled routes and discover hidden gems that might have been overlooked in busier seasons.
Crowds & Costs
February marks the low season for tourism, offering tranquility and cost savings. With the Inca Trail closed, the priciest trek is off the table, but fear not – other main treks remain open, providing budget-friendly options for adventure seekers.
Where to Explore
Despite the Inca Trail closure, Machu Picchu and every other attraction in the Sacred Valley welcomes visitors. Use this time to indulge in the hot springs at Salinas, near Urubamba, adding a touch of relaxation to your rain-soaked adventure.
Flora Delights
For flora enthusiasts, February is a visual feast. The thriving flower and plant life add bursts of color to the Machu Picchu area, turning the ruins into a living canvas. While the ruins remain a must-visit, exercise caution during climbs, especially on the trail up to Wayna Picchu.
Adventure Beyond Ruins
February offers more than just ruins. Embrace the opportunity for thrilling rafting adventures, as rivers swell into Class IV rapids. Cusco, being an all-weather destination, invites you to explore its fantastic restaurants and museums on rainy days.
February Events
Carnaval, a lively celebration leading up to Lent, transforms Cusco into a festive paradise. Additionally, don’t miss the captivating “Luchas de Toqto” in the Canas and Chumbivilcas provinces. This unique Quechua ritual aims to determine land settlements for the coming year, featuring elaborate fights and culminating in a celebratory party.
Train routes not fully operational
If you plan to travel by train from Cusco to Machu Picchu in February, note that train services from Cusco’s Poroy station are not operational. Instead, buses will take you for the Cusco-Ollantaytambo leg, followed by a train journey to Aguas Calientes.
Here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in February:
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Weather | Lush landscapes, fewer crowds due to rains and Inca Trail closure. | Heaviest rains of the year, potential for mud, and landslides. |
| Trekking | Opportunity to explore alternative treks like Salkantay with fewer tourists. | Inca Trail is closed for maintenance, limiting the iconic trekking experience. |
| Crowds & Costs | Low season results in tranquil visits and cost savings. | Inca Trail closure reduces trekking options; other main treks remain open. |
| Where to Explore | Machu Picchu and other attractions in the Sacred Valley are open. | Inca Trail’s closure limits access to a popular trekking route. |
| Flora Delights | Thriving flower and plant life enhance the visual experience. | Rainy conditions may require caution while exploring ruins and trails. |
| Adventure Beyond Ruins | Exciting rafting opportunities with rivers swelling into Class IV rapids. | Rainy weather might impact visibility; be cautious during climbs. |
| February Events | Vibrant Carnaval celebrations in Cusco and unique ‘Luchas de Toqto’ ritual. | Potential travel disruptions, especially if relying on train services. |
| Travel Logistics | Cusco offers alternatives on rainy days with fantastic restaurants and museums. | Train services from Cusco’s Poroy station are not operational in February. |
In conclusion, Machupicchu in February unveils a distinctive and less-explored side of this iconic destination. Let Kawsay Peru Travel be your companion on this enchanting journey. Book your adventure today and let the rain-soaked beauty of Machu Picchu in February leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.
