Machu Picchu in February: Inca Trail Closed, Rain and What to Do
Machu Picchu in February: Inca Trail Closed, Rain and What to Do
February is the trickiest month to visit Machu Picchu: it's the rainiest of the year and the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance. Even so, the citadel opens every day and some travelers can only go at this time. If that's you, here's what to expect and how to plan so it goes well.
Machu Picchu weather in February
- Rain: the heaviest of the year, around 140 mm for the month. It can rain for several hours straight.
- Temperature: 16-21 °C during the day and 6-9 °C at night, very humid.
- Fog: common in the morning; views can stay hidden for a while.
- River and train: with heavy rain the river rises and trains are sometimes delayed or suspended.
The Inca Trail closes all of February
Every year the classic Inca Trail closes for all of February for maintenance and safety. If your dream is to walk in through the Sun Gate, choose another month. Machu Picchu itself stays open and you get there by train.
Advantages of going in February
- Very few people: it's the least visited month.
- More availability for tickets, trains and hotels, even at short notice.
- Green scenery at its peak.
Risks and how to reduce them
- Leave at least one free day between Machu Picchu and your departure flight. If the train is delayed, you won't miss your flight.
- Choose the 2-day tour. A night in Aguas Calientes gives you more time to wait for the fog to lift and you're not tied to a single slot. Our Machu Picchu 2D/1N from US$280 includes train, hotel, bus, ticket and guide.
- Get travel insurance that covers weather changes. We explain it in travel insurance for Peru.
- Book with an agency that can reschedule train and hotel if something changes.
Carnival in February
February is also carnival month in Cusco and Andean villages: water fights, music and weekend parties. If you're there for it, enjoy it, but protect your phone and camera.
What to pack in February
- A good-quality poncho or rain jacket.
- Waterproof shoes with good grip.
- Quick-dry clothes and a spare change.
- Dry bag or plastic bags for documents and electronics.
- Insect repellent.
So, should you go in February?
If you can choose, there are better months: March already brings less rain and April combines green scenery with clearer skies. If February is your only option, go: with a buffer day and the 2-day tour, the visit usually works out. More context in Machu Picchu in the rainy season and the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Frequently asked questions
Is Machu Picchu open in February?
Yes. The citadel opens every day. What closes in February is the classic Inca Trail, for maintenance.
Is February the rainiest month at Machu Picchu?
Yes, with around 140 mm of rain. It can rain for hours and morning fog is common.
Are there alternatives to the Inca Trail in February?
You can reach Machu Picchu by train, which is the safest option this month. Alternative treks are also affected by the rain, so check conditions first.
What precautions should I take in February?
Leave a free day before your flight, choose the 2-day tour, bring waterproof gear and get insurance that covers weather changes.
