Why are more and more travelers choosing to visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon?
Have you thought about visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon? Many travelers choose to go early, but few know that going later can completely change the experience. What about the light, the weather, and the number of people?
In this blog, we’ll explain why the afternoon might be the best time to explore this famous site. Keep reading to find out if this option suits your travel style. You might discover a quieter and different way to experience Machu Picchu.
- Why choose the afternoon shift to visit Machu Picchu?
- Travel logistics and comfort
- Availability and planning
- Is it easier to get tickets for the afternoon?
- Weather and climate conditions
- Recommendations based on traveler type
Why choose the afternoon shift to visit Machu Picchu?
What are the main advantages of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon?
One of the main advantages of visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon is that the direction of the sunlight changes, allowing you to see the archaeological site with a different lighting than in the morning. This can lead to unique landscapes for photography and help you notice details that are not always visible under the morning sun. Additionally, if the weather is clear, the fog tends to dissipate as the day progresses, offering better visibility of the mountains and structures.
Another advantage is that, in some cases, travelers who arrive in the morning start leaving around midday, which can result in slightly less crowded areas within the site. This doesn’t mean it will be empty, but there may be calmer moments. Also, visiting in the afternoon allows you to use the morning for other activities, such as resting after a long trip or exploring the town of Aguas Calientes before heading up to the citadel.
Is it true that there are fewer tourists in the afternoon?
It’s common to hear that there are fewer tourists at Machu Picchu in the afternoon, but that idea isn’t entirely true. Tourist flow remains quite high throughout the day, especially during peak season (May to October). Entry tickets are divided by time slots to control visitor flow, but the number of people entering in the afternoon is also significant. This is because many tour packages and itineraries include the afternoon visit as a valid option.
Although on certain days it may seem like there are fewer people in the afternoon compared to the early morning shift, this doesn’t mean the experience will be crowd-free. Machu Picchu is one of the most visited destinations in the world, and the presence of tourists is constant throughout its operating hours. That’s why, regardless of the time, it’s important to be prepared to explore the site patiently and enjoy the surroundings without rushing.
Travel logistics and comfort
Is traveling to Machu Picchu in the afternoon more comfortable?
Absolutely. Here’s why: most travelers who visit Machu Picchu in the morning usually have a very tight schedule, leaving them little time to enjoy breakfast or explore the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo).
If you travel in the afternoon, you can be sure your visit will be much calmer and more relaxed. Also, if you’re planning your trip during the rainy season, it’s likely that the fog will have cleared by then, allowing you to better enjoy the beautiful views of the citadel.
Do you have to wake up early to visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon?
Traveler, this depends on you. If you’d like to explore the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), waking up early could be a good option, and it’s a popular choice for many visitors.
On the other hand, if you prefer not to wake up early, that’s also possible. There are convenient train schedules that depart in the morning (not at dawn), allowing you to get a good night’s sleep and enjoy a proper breakfast before heading to Machu Picchu.
What are the entry and closing times for Machu Picchu?
Traveler, keep in mind that entry times depend on the type of ticket you choose, as each route has specific visiting hours. Below are the available schedules:
| Route | Schedules |
|---|---|
| Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route | 6:00 am and 8:00 am |
| Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route | 6:00 am and 8:00 am |
| Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route | 6:00 am, 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm |
| Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate Route (available only in high season) | 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am |
| Route 1-D: Inka Bridge Route (available only in high season) | 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am |
| Route 2-A: Designed Classic Route | 6:00 am, 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm |
| Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route | 6:00 am, 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm |
| Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route | 7:00 am and 9:00 am |
| Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route | 6:00 am, 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm |
| Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (only available in high season) | 7:00 am and 8:00 am |
| Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route (only available in high season) | 9:00 am and 11:00 am |
Availability and Planning
Is it easier to get tickets for the afternoon?
In general, afternoon tickets can be a bit more flexible, but they are still in high demand and often sell out quickly. Whether you choose to visit Machu Picchu in the morning or in the afternoon, the key is to book in advance—ideally 3 to 4 months ahead. Leaving it until the last minute could be one of your biggest mistakes.
One important thing to know is that most people prefer to visit Machu Picchu in the morning. Why? Mainly because some tickets, such as those for Waynapicchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, are only available during the morning hours. Additionally, many travelers want to return to the city of Cusco before 10 p.m., which makes the morning slots more popular.
Weather and Climate Conditions
Is there less chance of rain in the afternoon?
Take note! One thing you should keep in mind is that rain is frequent and its intensity is hard to predict during the rainy season, which can sometimes last an entire day without stopping. That’s why you should always be prepared by bringing waterproof clothing, as well as a rain poncho.
Now, if you visit during the dry season, it’s unlikely to rain in the afternoon. If it does, it will likely be a very light drizzle that won’t affect your experience at all. On the contrary, don’t forget to bring sunscreen during this period—you don’t want to get sunburned, right?
Is fog more common in the morning or in the afternoon?
Traveler, keep in mind that fog tends to appear more frequently during the rainy season, especially in the morning hours, and it can last until almost midday. This often frustrates those visiting Machu Picchu early, as they can’t see the citadel or enjoy the panoramic views at all.
This is one of the main reasons many travelers prefer to visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon, especially during the rainy season. That said, fog can also occur in the afternoon, but it’s usually not as intense as in the morning, which in many cases allows for better panoramic views.
Recommendations by Type of Traveler
Is it recommended to visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon with children or seniors?
Visiting Machu Picchu in the afternoon can be a good option for children and seniors, as the weather is usually milder and there is less risk of encountering the chilly morning fog. Also, the pace can be more relaxed, which benefits those who need to walk slowly. Many families choose the afternoon slot to avoid waking up too early and to go up with more energy after a good breakfast and some rest.
However, it’s important to remember that visiting Machu Picchu involves climbs, stairs, and uneven terrain. While you don’t need to be in top physical shape, it’s recommended to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable footwear. It’s also a good idea to avoid the latest entry hours, so you don’t have to rush. With good planning, the afternoon slot can be a suitable option for these age groups.
What type of travelers benefit most from the afternoon slot?
The afternoon slot can be especially beneficial for those who prefer to sleep a bit more or avoid the early morning rush. Travelers arriving in Aguas Calientes the same day or those who want to enjoy other activities in the morning (like visiting the hot springs or strolling through the town) will find it more convenient to go up in the afternoon. It’s also a good option for those who couldn’t get morning tickets, which tend to sell out faster.
On the other hand, those looking for a more relaxed visit or better lighting conditions for photography may also take advantage of the afternoon hours. Some people prefer to enjoy the archaeological site with different lighting, and while the number of tourists remains high, there are moments when certain areas temporarily clear out. It all depends on the traveler’s pace and how they want to plan their day in Machu Picchu.
Is it possible to do a one-day visit from Cusco in the afternoon?
Absolutely! Here’s the thing: whether you want to enjoy a free morning in Aguas Calientes or stick to your sleep schedule, most travel agencies offer full-day tours to Machu Picchu, with departures at dawn (around 3 a.m.) and also in the morning between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.
What time is the return trip? That also depends on the available train departure times, which offer some flexibility for you to choose. But rest assured, if you decide to visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon, you could be back in Cusco between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m.
