The end of the dry season is a great month for hiking: crowds in the Sacred Valley and on the Inca Trail are down, while bright, sunny weather predominates. Although the chances of rain are increasing, temperatures are sneaking up, too. Altogether, this is one of the best months for outdoor activities in the Sacred Valley before the rains commence in earnest next month.
## Weather in the Sacred Valley in September
The month of September in the Sacred Valley generally presents a delightful climate, characterized by predominantly sunny and dry conditions. Although officially considered part of the dry season in the Andes, September offers a slightly different weather pattern compared to the peak high season. While rain remains less frequent than in the approaching months, there’s a marginally increased chance of encountering a brief shower. Temperatures also experience a gentle rise, creating a more temperate environment for exploration. Expect daytime highs to hover around a comfortable 68° Fahrenheit (20° Celsius), while nighttime temperatures dip to approximately 41° Fahrenheit (5° Celsius).
This weather pattern makes September an excellent time for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails beckon, inviting you to discover the breathtaking landscapes. Camping under the clear, star-studded Andean sky becomes an unforgettable experience. However, it’s important to note that wetter weather is on the horizon, arriving with the onset of the following month. Therefore, September represents a final opportunity to fully embrace the favorable conditions of the dry season for a wide range of outdoor adventures.
The dryer conditions aren’t limited to just the higher altitudes. This extends to the cloud forest and rainforest regions as well. This favorable weather pattern presents a perfect opportunity to combine your visit to Machu Picchu with an excursion into the lush, vibrant jungle, located just a day’s journey from Cusco.
## Crowds and Costs During September
One of the appealing aspects of traveling in September is the availability of more competitive prices on both accommodations and activities compared to the peak season spanning from June to August. While the cost of travel tends to drop during this period, it’s important to remember that September remains a popular month for visitors to Machu Picchu. This continuing popularity means that booking popular hotels, especially those situated near Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca Trail, and convenient trains departing from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, several months in advance, is still a prudent decision. Planning ahead will help guarantee you access to your preferred lodging and transportation options.
## Where to Explore
September grants you a unique opportunity to experience a sense of solitude in certain parts of the beautiful countryside of the Sacred Valley. Take advantage of this by venturing off the beaten path and discovering hidden gems. The region surrounding Cusco is rich in fascinating Inca ruins. Consider visiting sites such as Q’enqo or Sacsayhuaman, both easily accessible from the city. For those willing to travel a bit further into the Sacred Valley, the impressive archaeological sites of Moray, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo await, promising an enriching exploration of Inca history and culture. For the adventurous, consider undertaking alternative treks beyond the classic Inca Trail. Options like the Salkantay trek or the Lares trek offer incredible multi-day hiking experiences that ultimately lead to the magnificent Machu Picchu.
## Activities to Enjoy
Trekking continues to be a dominant activity in the Sacred Valley throughout September, drawing travelers eager to immerse themselves in the stunning scenery. If you’re seeking an alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, consider embarking on a challenging yet rewarding 5-day Salkantay trek. This trek involves scaling a breathtaking mountain pass and exploring fascinating Inca ruins, including the captivating ruins at Llactapata, before culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu.
September is also a particularly rewarding time for birdwatching enthusiasts. In the Andes, it marks the beginning of mating season for one of the country’s most striking and colorful avian species: the Andean cock-of-the-rock. These vibrant orange birds are at their most visually stunning during this period, and they are frequently spotted along the Inca Trail. Furthermore, September heralds the arrival of northern migrant bird species to Peru, further enriching the already diverse avian population.
Considering that September offers favorable conditions for both trekking and jungle exploration, a combined adventure is highly recommended. Why not consider combining both experiences during your trip to Peru? For example, a carefully crafted 12-day tour to the Sacred Valley and the captivating Amazon jungle would allow you to experience the best of both worlds.
## September Events and Celebrations
While September tends to be a quieter month in terms of large-scale festivals in the Sacred Valley, following a period of near-constant celebrations spanning the previous three months, there remains one significant exception that draws pilgrims and visitors alike.
**Señor de Huanca:** Every year on September 14th, pilgrims journey from all corners of Peru, neighboring Bolivia, and even further afield in South America, converging on Cusco to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage. This involves a six-hour journey on foot to reach the beautiful chapel known as Santuario Señor de Huanca, located near the charming town of San Salvador. The historical roots of this pilgrimage can be traced back to the 17th century when, according to legend, Christ appeared in a cave to a man named Diego Quispe. Diego Quispe’s detailed account of this encounter inspired a renowned painter to create a reproduction of the image on a rock face. Today, the faithful flock to the site in search of cures for various ailments and seeking spiritual solace.
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