Hands down the most lively month to visit Machu Picchu and its surroundings, June is also the busiest month and the height of high season here. Plenty of sunshine combines with the most important celebration of the Andean calendar, Inti Raymi, to make for a very special and atmospheric (if busy) time to visit.
## Weather in Machu Picchu During June
June stands out as a particularly appealing time to visit Machu Picchu, renowned for offering arguably the most delightful weather conditions throughout the year. During this month, you can anticipate the closest experience to consistent sunshine and the remarkable sight of cloudless, vibrant blue skies that grace the majestic Andes Mountains. Rainfall is a relatively uncommon occurrence, making it a prime time for exploration.
However, it’s crucial to remember that the valley cradling Machu Picchu seems to possess its own unique and unpredictable microclimate. Even during this generally favorable period, it’s wise to be prepared for the possibility of mist enveloping the ancient ruins, particularly during the early morning hours. On the whole, you can expect an abundance of sunshine, accompanied by slightly cooler temperatures, especially as night descends. High temperatures typically hover around 66° Fahrenheit (equivalent to 19° Celsius), while the lows can dip to approximately 34° Fahrenheit (or 1° Celsius). This temperature range makes for pleasant days and refreshingly cool evenings.
## Crowd Levels and Travel Costs in June
As June unfolds, the crowds visiting Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas steadily increase, nearing their peak levels. For those dreaming of trekking the iconic Inca Trail during this month, or during the other popular high season months of July and August, it is essential to plan well in advance. Securing your spot requires booking at least half a year ahead of your intended travel dates.
Similarly, journeys on any train originating from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, destined for Aguas Calientes, the gateway station to Machu Picchu, necessitate making reservations several months in advance to guarantee your passage. The most bustling period within June centers around Inti Raymi, the revered Inca Festival of the Sun. Throughout the entire month of June, you can anticipate hotels and bookable tours to be priced at some of their highest rates of the year. During the Inti Raymi celebration, costs, especially for hotel accommodations, experience an even more significant surge. Moreover, finding available rooms can be exceptionally challenging during this festive time, so early booking is paramount.
## Must-See Destinations in June
Cusco and the awe-inspiring Sacsayhuamán are undeniably the focal points during June, playing host to the vibrant Inti Raymi festivities. Many travelers also aspire to witness the dawn of Inti Raymi from within Machu Picchu itself, adding a special touch to their experience. For those seeking respite from the crowds that gather at both Machu Picchu and Cusco, consider exploring some of the other charming towns nestled within the Sacred Valley. Destinations like Pisac or Ollantaytambo offer a welcome change of pace and a more tranquil atmosphere during the bustling month of June.
Furthermore, take full advantage of the brighter, yet cooler, weather that graces the region from June through August by indulging in a relaxing dip in the rejuvenating hot springs of Salinas near Maras. The lower temperatures enhance the appeal of immersing yourself in the warm waters, while the radiant sunshine will help you dry off comfortably afterward, creating a truly delightful experience.
## Exciting Activities to Enjoy
Nature enthusiasts will find themselves utterly captivated by a June visit to the Sacred Valley. As water levels recede in the nearby jungle, opportunities for spotting animals along the riverbanks become more frequent. Additionally, birdwatching from canopy viewing platforms becomes even more rewarding, as the birds are drawn to these elevated spots to bask in the warmth of the sun.
Another remarkable addition to the local birdlife during this period is the majestic Andean condor. From now until the end of December, these magnificent birds are most commonly sighted in the rugged, upland areas, providing an unforgettable spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness their presence.
June remains an exceptional time for hiking and engaging in a wide range of outdoor activities. The only possible exception to this is rafting, where water levels tend to be lower than usual. However, if your sights are set on rafting the thrilling Río Apurímac, June emerges as one of the most ideal months to embark on this exhilarating adventure.
And, of course, one of the most compelling activities to undertake is attending a festival. Among the many festivals that take place, Inti Raymi stands out as an unparalleled experience, celebrated with fervor both in and around Cusco.
## June Events to Mark on Your Calendar
* **Cusqueña Beer Festival:** Celebrate Peru’s most beloved beer, Cusqueña, at an entire festival dedicated to it in its home city of Cusco. This lively event takes place during the first week of June, featuring an abundance of live rock and salsa music, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
* **Corpus Christi:** Witness this solemn festival of religious devotion, held on June 11 in the central squares of various towns and cities throughout the Sacred Valley and across Peru. The processions and displays of faith are a captivating sight to behold.
* **Inti Raymi:** This stands as the most significant celebration in the Inca and Andean calendar, marking the festival of the sun. Traditionally, it honors the shortest day of the year in the Andes and the point at which the sun is farthest from the Earth, on June 24. The Inca Empire deeply feared the potential harm that a lack of sunlight could inflict on their crops, and thus paid homage to the sun on this pivotal date to ensure its return. The Incan God of the Sun and the Goddess of Mother Earth, Pachamama, are both revered during this vibrant and colorful celebration, primarily held within the atmospheric grounds of Sacsayhuamán, a remarkable Incan site located just outside of Cusco. The spectacle is truly awe-inspiring.
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