Cusco has a subtropical highland climate, classified as Cwb in the Köppen system. The warmest month is October with an average high of 17°C, while the coldest month is June with lows dropping to 5°C. The annual temperature range of 12°C indicates a relatively stable climate year-round.
The driest month is July with only 3 rain days and 11mm of precipitation. For travellers, July through to the following month typically offers the best balance of warm temperatures and dry conditions. Average humidity ranges from 82% to 82% throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Cusco
Based on temperature and rainfall data, the best months to visit Cusco are June, July, May. These months offer the most comfortable temperatures with relatively low rainfall, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
In October, Cusco experiences average highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Expect around 21 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 82%. The 9°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV index averages 6, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.
Cusco typically sees 21 rainy days in October, with total precipitation of around 85mm. This is a notably wet period. A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella is essential, and it is worth building indoor alternatives into your daily itinerary for the inevitable rainy stretches. For context, the driest month in Cusco typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than October.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Cusco in October. Temperatures can drop to 8°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is important with 21 rainy days expected. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
October is a reasonable time to visit Cusco. Expect 21 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 17°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 10 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Cusco in October is 17°C (63°F), and the average low is 8°C (46°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 13°C (55°F). The day-to-night range of 9°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Cusco is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 10 hours per day and only 8 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 15°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
October is shoulder or low season in Cusco, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 21 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In October, Cusco suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 17°C. With frequent rain, indoor activities and covered attractions are a smart choice. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.