Inca Trail in August

Inca Trail in August

Can you hike the Inca Trail in August?

Yes is possible, Hiking the Inca Trail in August is a popular and rewarding choice, but it comes with some specific considerations due to the high season. Here are key points to keep in mind when planning an Inca Trail trek in August:

Weather

August falls within the dry season in the Cusco region, offering some of the most pleasant and stable weather conditions for hiking. Days are typically sunny and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F).

How cold is the Inca Trail in August?

It is not cold in August on the Inca Trail, on the contrary, the days are warm with good weather.

Availability

August is one of the busiest months for the Inca Trail. Due to its popularity, Inca Trail permits for this month tend to sell out quickly. It’s crucial to book your permits well in advance, often several months ahead of your desired departure date.

Altitude

Proper acclimatization is essential, as the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are located at high altitudes. Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the trek to adjust to the elevation.

Clothing

With the dry and mild weather in August, you can pack a combination of lightweight clothing for the daytime and warmer layers for the cooler nights. Minimal rainfall is expected, so you may not need extensive rain gear, but a light rain jacket or poncho is advisable.

Trail Conditions

August offers excellent trail conditions with dry paths that are not too muddy or slippery. This makes for a more enjoyable and straightforward hiking experience.

Crowds

August is one of the busiest months for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, so you can anticipate larger crowds of tourists. To minimize the impact of crowds, consider starting your trek early in the morning.

book with a local authorized agency

To hike the Inca Trail it is necessary to hire a local authorized agency as it is the only one that can buy the permits, it is not possible to hike the Inca Trail on your own.

Is August a good time to do the Inca Trail?

In summary, August is an excellent time to hike the Inca Trail due to the fantastic weather and minimal rainfall. However, it is essential to plan well in advance to secure your permits, be prepared for larger crowds, and take the necessary steps for high-altitude hiking. This is a prime opportunity to experience the beauty and history of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, but be ready for the popularity of this time of year.

Inca Trail in the coming months