Here are some tips on when to walk the Inca Trail. You can walk the trail throughout the year, with the exception of February when the trail is closed for restoration and cleaning. The rainy season runs from November to March, yet this is the hottest part of the year. Walkers on the trail tend to experience a light drizzle that continues throughout the season. Several climbers have said that this adds to the mystical effect of the trail as you hike through the spectacular cloud-topped mountains. At this time of year much of the fauna is in full bloom making the colors on the trail especially intense.
The dry season runs from June to August and this is when the trail receives most visitors. During this period the nights and early mornings are very cold, so warmer attire is required. There is relatively less fauna out along the trail; however trekkers are treated too much clearer views over the spectacular Andean mountain range, so it really depends on what you prefer. Either season still guarantees spectacular views and good fun. You may like to time your tour to co-inside with the Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco during the Winter Solstice. The festival takes place every June and is also a big deal among locals as well as travelers.
There are many treks and trails other than the famous Inca Trail. If you have your heart set on following one of the many Inca roads, but you haven’t booked far enough in advance, it is still possible to visit Machu Picchu and complete another trail.
One of the less explored treks is to the site of Choquequirao. This trek takes you to an archaeological complex of enormous signicance, and it is said to be the Incas last refuge during the final resistance of the Spanish conquest. The site is sometimes referred to as Machu Picchu’s sister. However, because of its isolation much of the site remains relatively unexplored; unlike Machu Picchu it is only accessible by trek, making it an isolated Inca gem.