Sacsayhuamán

Sacsayhuamán is a protected area in Peru.

Sacsayhuamán at a Glance

Location
Southern Andes & Altiplano, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-13.506691, -71.980705
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.

Getting to Sacsayhuamán

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Alejandro Velasco Astete (CUZ), 6 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Capitán Aníbal Arab Fadul (CIJ), 443 km away.

Weather & Climate in Sacsayhuamán

The warmest temperatures in Sacsayhuamán occur in November, averaging 11.2°C (up to 17.5°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 9.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 4.7mm. Average humidity: 60.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 10.4°C (rainfall: 188.5mm)
  • February: 10.4°C (rainfall: 138.8mm)
  • March: 10.1°C (rainfall: 129.1mm)
  • April: 9.8°C (rainfall: 54.5mm)
  • May: 9.7°C (rainfall: 26.8mm)
  • June: 9.2°C (rainfall: 4.7mm)
  • July: 9.5°C (rainfall: 5.4mm)
  • August: 9.9°C (rainfall: 12.0mm)
  • September: 10.5°C (rainfall: 25.3mm)
  • October: 11.1°C (rainfall: 58.8mm)
  • November: 11.2°C (rainfall: 138.0mm)
  • December: 10.7°C (rainfall: 161.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Sacsayhuamán

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 10.37°C, rainfall 188.5mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 73.6%
  • February: Poor, temperature 10.43°C, rainfall 138.8mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • March: Poor, temperature 10.06°C, rainfall 129.1mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 75.6%
  • April: Good, temperature 9.84°C, rainfall 54.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 72.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 9.72°C, rainfall 26.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 65.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 9.22°C, rainfall 4.7mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 60%
  • July: Great, temperature 9.49°C, rainfall 5.4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 57%
  • August: Great, temperature 9.93°C, rainfall 12mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 58%
  • September: Good, temperature 10.5°C, rainfall 25.3mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 61.9%
  • October: Good, temperature 11.14°C, rainfall 58.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 63.2%
  • November: Good, temperature 11.21°C, rainfall 138mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 67%
  • December: Poor, temperature 10.7°C, rainfall 161mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 72.2%

Wildlife in Sacsayhuamán

Home to 43 recorded species including 18 waterbirds, 12 birds of prey, 8 iconic birds, 4 tropical birds, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Sacsayhuamán

Based on average temperature of 10.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 67%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 10°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • 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 Sacsayhuamán

50 safari lodges available.

Other

mid-range

luxury

Similar Parks in Southern Andes & Altiplano

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru

Sacsayhuamán FAQs

When is the optimal time of year to visit Sacsayhuamán for wildlife viewing and comfortable weather?

The dry season, typically from May to October, offers the best conditions for visiting Sacsayhuamán. During these months, rainfall is minimal, making wildlife more visible near water sources and trails more accessible for exploration. Temperatures are also generally milder, providing a more pleasant safari experience.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter during a safari in Sacsayhuamán, Peru?

Sacsayhuamán, while known for its historical significance, also protects unique Andean wildlife. Visitors might spot species like the Andean fox, viscacha (a type of rodent resembling a rabbit), and various high-altitude birds such as the Andean condor. Keep an eye out for these resilient creatures adapted to the mountainous terrain.

What specific health precautions should I take regarding malaria when planning a trip to Sacsayhuamán?

Given the moderate malaria risk in the region, it's advisable to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if provided. These measures significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Beyond wildlife viewing, what unique cultural or historical experiences does Sacsayhuamán offer as a protected area?

Sacsayhuamán uniquely blends its natural protected status with profound Inca history. Visitors can explore the impressive ancient Inca fortress ruins within the park, offering a dual experience of observing Andean wildlife amidst significant archaeological marvels. Guided tours often combine both ecological and historical insights, providing a rich cultural immersion.

How accessible is Sacsayhuamán, and what are the typical entry fees or tour costs for a safari experience?

Sacsayhuamán is highly accessible, located just outside Cusco, making it easy to reach by taxi or local bus. Entry to the protected area, which often includes access to the archaeological site, is typically covered by the 'Boleto Turístico del Cusco' (Cusco Tourist Ticket), which can range from 70-130 Peruvian Soles depending on the validity and included sites. Many tour operators offer combined half-day or full-day excursions from Cusco, with prices varying based on inclusions like transport and guide services.

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.