The Inca Trail reopens this month, seeing a surge of visitors to the hike and to Machu Picchu not seen since the previous October. This is still wet season in the Sacred Valley, but the rains are beginning to subside as the month wears on, bringing better hiking weather. If Easter falls this month, Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations bring even more visitors to the region.
## A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail in March
March in the Sacred Valley presents a unique travel experience, characterized by a blend of lingering wet conditions and the emergence of drier days, setting the stage for the approaching dry season. This month offers a distinctive charm, appealing to travelers who appreciate a landscape undergoing a beautiful transition. While the weather requires some planning, the rewards of experiencing the region at this time are significant.
**Weather Conditions in March**
The weather in the Sacred Valley in March is best described as a continuation of the rainy season, albeit with a noticeable shift towards drier conditions. Following the heavy rains of January and February, March still experiences considerable rainfall, making it one of the wetter months of the year. However, as the month progresses, the number of dry days increases, particularly along the famed Inca Trail.
During this period, temperatures in the Sacred Valley typically range from highs of around 65° F (18° C) to lows of approximately 42° F (6° C). This temperature fluctuation necessitates careful packing, with layers of clothing being essential to accommodate both warm and cool conditions. While the sun begins to make more frequent appearances, Machu Picchu is often shrouded in clouds, creating a mystical and atmospheric ambiance that many photographers find appealing. The interplay of light and shadow, coupled with the dramatic cloud cover, can result in stunning and unique photographs.
It is crucial to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions in March, including hot, wet, and cold spells. These varying conditions are particularly noticeable when trekking along the Inca Trail, where travelers may experience all three within a single day. Therefore, packing accordingly is paramount to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience.
The trails themselves are often muddy due to the preceding months of heavy rainfall. However, it’s worth remembering that the Inca Trail undergoes its annual maintenance period in February. This maintenance ensures that bridges and steps are repaired or replaced, addressing any damage caused by erosion or wear and tear. In many ways, hiking the trail in March means experiencing it in excellent condition, with infrastructure that has been recently restored. Despite the maintenance, the threat of landslides remains a concern, and hikers should be aware of this potential hazard and take necessary precautions.
**Crowd Levels and Travel Costs**
For those familiar with the Sacred Valley in February, the month of March brings a noticeable increase in the number of tourists visiting the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, reaching levels comparable to those seen in October. This surge in tourism is driven by two primary factors: the improving weather conditions as the dry season approaches and the arrival of Semana Santa, or Holy Week, one of Peru’s most significant religious celebrations.
Semana Santa, a week-long festival that takes place either in March or April leading up to Easter, is a major holiday for many Peruvians and South Americans. This influx of domestic and international tourists contributes to the higher crowd levels experienced during this period.
In terms of travel costs, the early part of March can still present opportunities to find good deals on hotels and tours. However, if Semana Santa falls within March, prices tend to increase significantly, reaching levels comparable to, or even exceeding, those of the peak tourist season. Therefore, travelers planning to visit the Sacred Valley in March should carefully consider the timing of their trip and book accommodations and tours in advance, especially if their visit coincides with Semana Santa.
**Where to Explore**
The reopening of the Inca Trail in March after its annual closure in February is a major draw for visitors to the Sacred Valley. This iconic trail offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience, culminating in the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.
If your visit coincides with Semana Santa, it is highly recommended to dedicate time to exploring the various towns and villages within the Sacred Valley and witnessing the vibrant pageantry associated with this religious festival. Cusco is renowned for its elaborate Semana Santa celebrations, but other towns such as Ollantaytambo also offer unique and captivating festivities. Attending these celebrations provides a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
**Activities to Enjoy**
While March may not be the optimal time for hiking due to the lingering wet conditions, the Inca Trail is nonetheless open and accessible. However, caution is advised on steeper trails, such as the path leading up to Wayna Picchu, as they can be particularly slippery. It is also important to avoid climbing on rocks that may be wet and unstable after rainfall.
Despite the potential challenges posed by the weather, March offers unique opportunities for other activities in the region. Machu Picchu, situated in a highland setting, is surrounded by lush jungle, particularly cloud forest. Certain activities in the vicinity, such as the Inca Jungle Trek, are actually best enjoyed during this wetter time of year.
The Inca Jungle Trek is a four-day adventure that combines cycling, zip-lining, and rafting as a build-up to visiting Machu Picchu. March, with its high water levels and passable roads, presents ideal conditions for this thrilling experience. The high water levels in the rivers enhance the rafting component, while the lush vegetation provides a stunning backdrop for cycling and zip-lining.
For those interested in the region’s flora, March is a particularly rewarding month. The rains have transformed the landscape, imbuing everything along the Inca Trail with a vibrant green hue. Additionally, March marks the final month (until October) for spotting the Inca Trail’s diverse array of orchid species in their prime. These delicate and beautiful flowers are a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity.
The significant rainfall in March results in high river levels, creating excellent conditions for rafting. Many rivers around Machu Picchu feature Class IV rapids during this time, offering an exhilarating experience for adventure seekers. Additionally, exploring the jungle by water provides opportunities for wildlife sightings, such as monkeys inhabiting the canopy.
Wildlife enthusiasts will also appreciate the flourishing plant life in the region during March. The plants and flowers are approaching their peak bloom after a season of rain, creating a colorful and vibrant spectacle.
For those planning to travel by train from Cusco to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes train station) in March, it’s important to note that services from Cusco’s Poroy train station are typically suspended. Instead, travelers are transported by bus for the Cusco-Ollantaytambo segment and then continue by train to Aguas Calientes from Ollantaytambo. Furthermore, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risk of landslides along the railway lines during this time of year.
**March Events and Celebrations**
The most prominent event in the Sacred Valley during March, particularly if Easter falls within the month or early April, is Semana Santa, a “Holy Week” filled with religious observances and festivities in the days leading up to Easter Sunday or Easter Monday. Cusco’s celebrations are particularly noteworthy, including the festival of Señor de Los Temblores on the Monday of Holy Week. This event commemorates the earthquake of 1650 that devastated Cusco, featuring a procession carrying a ‘Lord of the Earthquakes’ effigy through the city.
Visiting the Sacred Valley and the Inca Trail in March offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. While the weather requires careful planning, the rewards of experiencing the region during this transitional period are well worth the effort.
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