Meseta de Marcahuasi

Meseta de Marcahuasi is a protected area in Peru.

Meseta de Marcahuasi at a Glance

Location
Central Andes & Amazon Foothills, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-11.786132, -76.576950
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.

Getting to Meseta de Marcahuasi

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Francisco Carlé de Jauja (JAU), 120 km away.

Weather & Climate in Meseta de Marcahuasi

The warmest temperatures in Meseta de Marcahuasi occur in September, averaging 7.1°C (up to 12.4°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 6.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 3.5mm. Average humidity: 49.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 6.3°C (rainfall: 264.9mm)
  • February: 6.7°C (rainfall: 274.2mm)
  • March: 6.3°C (rainfall: 318.7mm)
  • April: 6.6°C (rainfall: 136.6mm)
  • May: 6.5°C (rainfall: 55.4mm)
  • June: 6.1°C (rainfall: 7.5mm)
  • July: 6.5°C (rainfall: 3.5mm)
  • August: 6.7°C (rainfall: 6.8mm)
  • September: 7.1°C (rainfall: 56.9mm)
  • October: 6.8°C (rainfall: 117.1mm)
  • November: 6.7°C (rainfall: 106.0mm)
  • December: 6.4°C (rainfall: 248.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Meseta de Marcahuasi

The best months to visit Meseta de Marcahuasi are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 6.34°C, rainfall 264.9mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 83.7%
  • February: Poor, temperature 6.72°C, rainfall 274.2mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 83%
  • March: Poor, temperature 6.35°C, rainfall 318.7mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 86.1%
  • April: Good, temperature 6.59°C, rainfall 136.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.1%
  • May: Good, temperature 6.47°C, rainfall 55.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 71.1%
  • June: Great, temperature 6.06°C, rainfall 7.5mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 58.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 6.47°C, rainfall 3.5mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 49.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 6.68°C, rainfall 6.8mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 52%
  • September: Good, temperature 7.07°C, rainfall 56.9mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 62.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 6.77°C, rainfall 117.1mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 69.9%
  • November: Good, temperature 6.73°C, rainfall 106mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 70%
  • December: Poor, temperature 6.4°C, rainfall 248.1mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 82.6%

Wildlife in Meseta de Marcahuasi

Home to 38 recorded species including 12 birds of prey, 11 waterbirds, 7 iconic birds, 6 tropical birds, 1 big herbivores, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Meseta de Marcahuasi

Based on average temperature of 6.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 71%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 7°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Meseta de Marcahuasi

39 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Central Andes & Amazon Foothills

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru

Meseta de Marcahuasi FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Meseta de Marcahuasi for optimal weather and hiking conditions?

The dry season, typically from May to October, offers the most stable weather with clear skies, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the unique rock formations. During these months, trails are less muddy, and the views across the plateau are generally unobstructed.

What unique geological features and activities can I expect at Meseta de Marcahuasi?

Meseta de Marcahuasi is renowned for its extraordinary granite rock formations, often resembling human and animal figures, which are best explored through hiking and camping. Visitors can expect high-altitude landscapes, mystical energy, and opportunities for stargazing away from city lights.

What are the typical entry fees and transportation costs for visiting Meseta de Marcahuasi?

There is usually a small entrance fee to access the protected area, which contributes to its conservation and maintenance. Transportation typically involves taking a bus or colectivo from Lima to San Pedro de Casta, followed by a hike or mule ride up to the meseta, with varying costs depending on your chosen method.

Beyond malaria precautions, what specific safety considerations should I be aware of when visiting Meseta de Marcahuasi?

Due to its high altitude (around 4,000 meters or 13,000 feet), visitors should be prepared for potential altitude sickness by acclimatizing properly and staying hydrated. Additionally, as a protected area with limited facilities, it's advisable to hike with a companion, carry sufficient supplies, and inform someone of your itinerary.

What unique wildlife and plant species can I hope to encounter at Meseta de Marcahuasi?

While not a traditional safari for large mammals, Meseta de Marcahuasi is home to high-Andean wildlife such as vicuñas, vizcachas, and various bird species adapted to the puna ecosystem. The flora primarily consists of hardy grasses and shrubs, with some unique high-altitude plant life thriving among the rock formations.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.