Machu Picchu in March: Less Rain, Lush Green and Few Tourists
Machu Picchu in March: Less Rain, Lush Green and Few Tourists
March is a transition month: the rainy season starts to wind down, the Inca Trail reopens after the February closure and Machu Picchu's terraces are at their greenest. With few people and prices still low, it's one of the most underrated months to travel.
Machu Picchu weather in March
- Rain: still frequent in the first half of the month, easing noticeably toward the end.
- Temperature: 16-21 °C during the day and 6-9 °C at night.
- Skies: more days with clear mornings than in January and February.
- Scenery: the greenest of the year, with vegetation in full bloom.
Is it crowded?
Not very, except during Easter week, when many Peruvian travelers arrive. In 2027, Easter runs from Thursday March 25 to Sunday March 28: book ahead for those dates.
Is the Inca Trail open in March?
Yes. It reopens on March 1 after February maintenance. March permits are usually easier to get than high-season ones, though the trail can still be wet.
Advantages of going in March
- Intensely green scenery, ideal for photos.
- Few people outside Easter week.
- Rain easing, especially in the second half.
- Hotel and train prices lower than from June to August.
Downsides
- It can still rain, especially in the afternoon.
- Some foggy mornings.
- Wet paths and stairways.
Tips for March
- Go in the second half if you can choose: it rains less.
- Enter early. With Machu Picchu 2D/1N from US$280 you sleep in Aguas Calientes and ride up on the first buses.
- Bring a poncho even if the day starts sunny.
- Combine it with the Sacred Valley, which looks spectacular in March: see our Sacred Valley VIP from US$32.
What to pack in March
- Poncho or rain jacket.
- Shoes with good grip.
- Layers: cool mornings, mild middays.
- Sunscreen, a cap and insect repellent.
Is March worth it?
Yes, especially if you love photography and prefer to avoid crowds. For even less rain, see Machu Picchu in April. If you're comparing, check February and the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Frequently asked questions
Does it rain at Machu Picchu in March?
Yes, but less than in January and February. Rain eases especially in the second half and usually falls in the afternoon.
Is the Inca Trail open in March?
Yes. It reopens on March 1 after the February maintenance closure.
When is Easter in 2027?
From Thursday March 25 to Sunday March 28, 2027. Many Peruvians travel then, so book ahead.
Is March a good month for Machu Picchu?
Yes: crowds are thin, the scenery is very green and the rain is easing. It's a good balance between weather and calm.
