Wet season is here—but the rain does not stick around all day in the Sacred Valley. If you’re one of the relatively few travelers coming to the region this month, you will enjoy sightseeing at the least-crowded time of year and probably still see the sun quite a bit. Trekking is wetter and muddier than usual, but flora is thriving and rising water levels increase the appeal of rafting. An activity that combines both, such as the Inca Jungle Trek, is ideal around now.
## Weather in November in Peru: A Comprehensive Guide
November in Peru presents a unique set of conditions for travelers, particularly in the Sacred Valley and along the famed Inca Trail. This month marks the true arrival of the wet season in the Sacred Valley, so it’s essential to be prepared for rain. On the Inca Trail, the temperature remains relatively stable. You can expect highs around 70° F (21° C) and lows around 43° F (6° C). By Andean standards, these temperatures are considered warm, and even at night, the temperature rarely dips below freezing.
While the relatively mild temperatures are a boon for those planning to camp along the trail, the increased rainfall can, at times, put a damper on enthusiasm. The rain is a persistent presence, with the typical wet season pattern involving heavier rainfall in the afternoons. Mornings, however, often offer bright and clear skies, providing opportunities for dry exploration.
As November progresses, the accumulation of rainwater elevates the risk of landslides in certain areas. The terrain underfoot becomes progressively muddier, requiring sturdy footwear and careful navigation. Despite the challenges posed by the rain, the increased moisture brings a vibrant transformation to the landscape. After months of dryness, the Andes burst back to life, displaying a welcome resurgence of color. Green hues dominate the landscape, signaling a renewal of plant life.
## Crowd Levels, Costs and Planning Your Trip
November sits between the end of the shoulder season and the commencement of the busy Christmas and New Year period. Consequently, November is arguably the prime time to secure favorable deals on hotels and tours throughout Peru. Visitor numbers are generally at their lowest point during the year. The decline in visitor numbers compared to October is significant.
The reduced crowds offer several advantages. Planning a trip for November is generally easier compared to other times of the year. Hotels are less likely to be fully booked, and tours are less likely to be oversubscribed. Furthermore, some of the most attractive flight prices of the year, especially for international flights arriving in Lima, become available during this period.
## Destination Recommendations: Where to Go in November
November offers the unique possibility of experiencing the Inca Trail and the iconic Machu Picchu with fewer crowds than usual. The reduced number of trekkers and visitors enhances the sense of solitude and allows for a more intimate appreciation of these remarkable sites. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Inca Trail experiences increased erosion due to the rain during this month. Therefore, alternative treks, which are less frequented, might offer a superior hiking experience in November. Consider the 5-day Salkantay Trek, which can be incorporated into an 8-day visit to Peru’s Sacred Valley.
When visiting the Sacred Valley in November, it is advisable to plan for more indoor activities compared to visits during drier seasons. While the Sacred Valley boasts stunning countryside, November’s weather may limit outdoor exploration. Instead, consider focusing on the impressive architecture and captivating museums in Cusco. Alternatively, take advantage of the city’s exceptional restaurants and vibrant nightlife scene. The smaller, charming towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo also offer inviting options for spending time indoors, exploring local culture, and seeking shelter from the rain.
For those who have braved the elements on the Inca Trail for several days, the thermal springs in Aguas Calientes and at Salinas near Maras provide a particularly appealing respite. Soaking in the warm thermal baths is a far more enjoyable experience than enduring the cold and wet conditions that can sometimes occur on the Inca Trail!
## Activities and Adventures: What to Do in November
As the increasingly heavy rains make trekking less appealing due to muddy trails and limited shelter, alternative activities like rafting become increasingly attractive. While the rain presents challenges, it also triggers a burst of vibrant color along the Inca Trail. The previously dry landscape transforms into a canvas of blooming flora.
For plant enthusiasts, the Sacred Valley hikes in November are a true delight. The diverse range of orchid varieties, among other notable flowers, begin to bloom in vibrant colors.
Shoulder months like November are also ideal for treks that incorporate both jungle and mountain environments. The Inca Jungle Trek, for instance, offers a thrilling 4-day adventure leading to Machu Picchu. This trek involves cycling, zip-lining, and rafting. In November, you’ll encounter fewer crowds, rivers swollen with enough water for optimal rafting, and no complete washouts since the wet season hasn’t fully commenced. November, along with October and March, is the perfect time to undertake this unique adventure.
The rafting season on the Río Apurímac concludes at the end of November. However, rafting opportunities on other rivers in the region remain available throughout the wet season.
## November Events in Peru: Honoring the Dead
**Día de Todos Santos & Día de los Muertos:** On November 1st and 2nd, Peru celebrates Día de Todos Santos (All Saints’ Day) and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), respectively. During these two days, the memory of deceased loved ones is honored throughout the country. In the highlands, it is customary to bring gifts of food to the deceased at their cemetery tombs. Candlelit vigils are also held at cemeteries until dawn on November 2nd. Additionally, a special bread called *tanta wawa* is prepared and shared. This bread often features decorative shapes and represents departed souls.
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