Embark on an unparalleled journey to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley in September, where the allure of sunny weather meets the tranquility of the shoulder season. This month promises a unique experience with fewer crowds, better deals on accommodations and tours, and the opportunity to explore the region’s rich natural wonders.
Weather
September ushers in the last whispers of the dry season, offering sunny and dry days in the Sacred Valley. While there’s a slight uptick in the chance of rain compared to the high season, temperatures become milder, with highs reaching around 68°F (20°C) and lows at 41°F (5°C). Seize the last moments of the dry season before wetter weather arrives next month, and consider extending your journey to the lush jungle, just a day’s journey from Cusco.
Read: Best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Crowds & Costs
Enjoy the luxury of exploring Machu Picchu with fewer crowds and better deals on hotels and activities. Though September is officially shoulder season, it remains a popular time to visit, so securing accommodations near Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, and Cusco to Aguas Calientes in advance is advisable.
Where to Go
Experience the tranquility of the countryside around Machu Picchu, allowing you to visit lesser-known Inca ruins like Q’enqo, Sacsayhuaman, Moray, Pisac, or Ollantaytambo. September offers a unique opportunity to relish these historical sites with fewer fellow explorers.
What to Do
Trekking enthusiasts can indulge in the popular activity of the Sacred Valley. Explore alternatives to the Inca Trail, such as the awe-inspiring 5-day Salkantay trek. Witness the mating season of the Andean cock-of-the-rock, adding vibrant colors to the Andean landscape. September beckons birders, attracting northern migrant bird species to Peru.
Consider combining trekking and jungle exploration for an immersive 12-day adventure that captures the best of both worlds.
September Events in Cusco
While September is a quieter month for festivals in the Sacred Valley, the notable exception is the Senor de Huanca pilgrimage on September 14. Pilgrims from across Peru, Bolivia, and South America embark on a 6-hour journey to the Santuario Señor de Huanca near San Salvador. Rooted in a 17th-century story of a divine apparition, this pilgrimage is a spiritual and cultural highlight.
Pros and cons of visiting Machu Picchu in September
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Weather | Enjoy sunny and dry days with milder temperatures, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Seize the last moments of the dry season’s favorable weather. | Slight increase in the chance of rain compared to high season, and chilly mornings and evenings may require warmer clothing. |
| Crowds & Costs | Experience Machu Picchu with fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations and activities. September is shoulder season, offering a unique and less hectic visit. | Despite being shoulder season, September remains popular, and booking popular accommodations in advance is advisable. |
| Where to Go | Explore tranquil countryside areas with fewer fellow explorers, discovering lesser-known Inca ruins like Q’enqo, Sacsayhuaman, Moray, Pisac, or Ollantaytambo. | Popular destinations may still draw considerable crowds, so strategic planning is essential for a more secluded experience. |
| What to Do | Engage in popular trekking activities, including alternatives to the Inca Trail like the 5-day Salkantay trek. Witness the vibrant mating season of the Andean cock-of-the-rock. | Crowded conditions at the main Machu Picchu site may require strategic planning for a more secluded experience. Enjoy birdwatching as migrant species arrive. |
| September Events | Experience a quieter festival month in the Sacred Valley, with the notable exception of the Senor de Huanca pilgrimage on September 14. | Limited major festivals compared to previous months, but the Senor de Huanca pilgrimage adds a cultural and spiritual highlight. |
| Overall Experience | September in Machu Picchu promises a serene and enchanting landscape, blending cultural exploration with the natural beauty of the region. | Strategic planning is essential to balance crowd avoidance and festival participation for an optimal and unforgettable experience. |
Machu Picchu in September unveils a serene and enchanting landscape, blending cultural exploration with the natural beauty of the region. Join us at Kawsay Peru Travel to craft your September adventure, where fewer crowds and diverse experiences await.
