50 safari lodges
    Southern Andes & Altiplano, Peru
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

    Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu is a protected area in Peru.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.
    Species
    35
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    50
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

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    35 species recorded in Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu3 threatened

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

    Peru offers a dual safari experience, blending the unparalleled biodiversity of the Amazon with the dramatic landscapes of the Andes. For the Amazonian jewels of Manu National Park and Tambopata...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. Humidity is high, making it feel very warm.

    The rainforest is lush and vibrant. Birding is excellent with resident species at their most active. River levels are high, allowing access to more remote areas.

    We love the sheer abundance of life during this green season, especially the incredible birding opportunities in Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    February

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with persistent rain and high humidity. Trails can be muddy and some areas may be inaccessible.

    Despite the rain, wildlife remains active. Look for jaguar sightings as they may be more visible near riverbanks. Amphibian and reptile activity is high.

    If you don't mind the rain, February offers a truly wild and uncrowded experience in the Amazon.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season transitioning to Dry Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity starts to drop slightly, offering more comfortable conditions.

    As river levels recede, wildlife congregates more around remaining water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Macaw activity at clay licks is consistent.

    We find March to be a sweet spot, with fewer crowds and wildlife becoming more concentrated.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather becomes significantly drier with less humidity and fewer rain showers. Mornings are cool and pleasant, with warm afternoons.

    This is prime time for spotting giant otters and caimans along the rivers. The drier conditions make for excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.

    We highly recommend April for its comfortable weather and excellent opportunities to see riverine wildlife in Manu and Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny days are the norm, with cool mornings and evenings. This is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise.

    Wildlife viewing is superb. Jaguar sightings are often reported. The cooler temperatures make exploring the Andes for condors and vicuñas very rewarding.

    May is perfect for combining Amazonian wildlife with Andean discoveries; we love the crisp air in the highlands.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park
    +1

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler temperatures prevail, especially in the Andes. The Amazon remains dry and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing in the Amazon. Birds are active, and mammals are easier to spot against the drier vegetation. Condor sightings are excellent in the Andes.

    We adore June for its reliably dry weather and abundant wildlife; it's ideal for first-time visitors.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    The driest and coolest month. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though nights can be chilly, especially in the Andes.

    Excellent conditions for spotting mammals along riverbanks. Macaw clay licks are particularly active. Andean wildlife viewing, including spectacled bears, is at its best.

    July is sensational for wildlife encounters across the board; we recommend booking well in advance.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and sunny, with temperatures warming up slightly compared to June and July. Nights remain cool.

    Prime time for jaguar and giant otter sightings. The dry season concentrates animals near water sources. Birding remains strong, with many resident species.

    We find August offers a fantastic combination of dry weather and predictable wildlife sightings; it's hard to beat.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season transitioning to Green Season

    The weather remains largely dry, but the first hints of the upcoming rains may appear. Temperatures are warm and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent. The transition period can sometimes lead to increased animal activity as they prepare for the changing season.

    September is a great month to visit before the heaviest rains return; we love the vibrant energy of the rainforest.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    October

    moderate

    Green Season

    Rainfall increases, especially in the afternoons. Humidity rises, and temperatures become warmer.

    The rainforest becomes incredibly lush. Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species arriving. River levels start to rise, opening up new areas.

    We enjoy October for the dramatic green landscapes and the incredible birdlife that thrives in the early rains.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    November

    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, often heavy, tropical downpours. Humidity is high, and temperatures are warm.

    The forest is alive with sound and activity. This is a good time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Macaw clay licks are still active.

    For those who embrace the rain, November offers a truly immersive and less crowded Amazonian experience.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Heavy rains are common, particularly in the afternoons. The environment is very humid and warm.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. Wildlife is abundant, though sightings might require more patience due to dense foliage. Excellent for spotting insects and amphibians.

    We recommend December for its raw, untamed beauty and the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the wet season.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. Humidity is high, making it feel very warm.

    The rainforest is lush and vibrant. Birding is excellent with resident species at their most active. River levels are high, allowing access to more remote areas.

    We love the sheer abundance of life during this green season, especially the incredible birding opportunities in Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    February

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with persistent rain and high humidity. Trails can be muddy and some areas may be inaccessible.

    Despite the rain, wildlife remains active. Look for jaguar sightings as they may be more visible near riverbanks. Amphibian and reptile activity is high.

    If you don't mind the rain, February offers a truly wild and uncrowded experience in the Amazon.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season transitioning to Dry Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity starts to drop slightly, offering more comfortable conditions.

    As river levels recede, wildlife congregates more around remaining water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Macaw activity at clay licks is consistent.

    We find March to be a sweet spot, with fewer crowds and wildlife becoming more concentrated.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather becomes significantly drier with less humidity and fewer rain showers. Mornings are cool and pleasant, with warm afternoons.

    This is prime time for spotting giant otters and caimans along the rivers. The drier conditions make for excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.

    We highly recommend April for its comfortable weather and excellent opportunities to see riverine wildlife in Manu and Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny days are the norm, with cool mornings and evenings. This is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise.

    Wildlife viewing is superb. Jaguar sightings are often reported. The cooler temperatures make exploring the Andes for condors and vicuñas very rewarding.

    May is perfect for combining Amazonian wildlife with Andean discoveries; we love the crisp air in the highlands.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park
    +1

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler temperatures prevail, especially in the Andes. The Amazon remains dry and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing in the Amazon. Birds are active, and mammals are easier to spot against the drier vegetation. Condor sightings are excellent in the Andes.

    We adore June for its reliably dry weather and abundant wildlife; it's ideal for first-time visitors.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    The driest and coolest month. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though nights can be chilly, especially in the Andes.

    Excellent conditions for spotting mammals along riverbanks. Macaw clay licks are particularly active. Andean wildlife viewing, including spectacled bears, is at its best.

    July is sensational for wildlife encounters across the board; we recommend booking well in advance.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and sunny, with temperatures warming up slightly compared to June and July. Nights remain cool.

    Prime time for jaguar and giant otter sightings. The dry season concentrates animals near water sources. Birding remains strong, with many resident species.

    We find August offers a fantastic combination of dry weather and predictable wildlife sightings; it's hard to beat.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season transitioning to Green Season

    The weather remains largely dry, but the first hints of the upcoming rains may appear. Temperatures are warm and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent. The transition period can sometimes lead to increased animal activity as they prepare for the changing season.

    September is a great month to visit before the heaviest rains return; we love the vibrant energy of the rainforest.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    October

    moderate

    Green Season

    Rainfall increases, especially in the afternoons. Humidity rises, and temperatures become warmer.

    The rainforest becomes incredibly lush. Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species arriving. River levels start to rise, opening up new areas.

    We enjoy October for the dramatic green landscapes and the incredible birdlife that thrives in the early rains.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    November

    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, often heavy, tropical downpours. Humidity is high, and temperatures are warm.

    The forest is alive with sound and activity. This is a good time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Macaw clay licks are still active.

    For those who embrace the rain, November offers a truly immersive and less crowded Amazonian experience.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Heavy rains are common, particularly in the afternoons. The environment is very humid and warm.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. Wildlife is abundant, though sightings might require more patience due to dense foliage. Excellent for spotting insects and amphibians.

    We recommend December for its raw, untamed beauty and the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the wet season.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. Humidity is high, making it feel very warm.

    The rainforest is lush and vibrant. Birding is excellent with resident species at their most active. River levels are high, allowing access to more remote areas.

    We love the sheer abundance of life during this green season, especially the incredible birding opportunities in Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    February

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with persistent rain and high humidity. Trails can be muddy and some areas may be inaccessible.

    Despite the rain, wildlife remains active. Look for jaguar sightings as they may be more visible near riverbanks. Amphibian and reptile activity is high.

    If you don't mind the rain, February offers a truly wild and uncrowded experience in the Amazon.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season transitioning to Dry Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity starts to drop slightly, offering more comfortable conditions.

    As river levels recede, wildlife congregates more around remaining water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Macaw activity at clay licks is consistent.

    We find March to be a sweet spot, with fewer crowds and wildlife becoming more concentrated.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather becomes significantly drier with less humidity and fewer rain showers. Mornings are cool and pleasant, with warm afternoons.

    This is prime time for spotting giant otters and caimans along the rivers. The drier conditions make for excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.

    We highly recommend April for its comfortable weather and excellent opportunities to see riverine wildlife in Manu and Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny days are the norm, with cool mornings and evenings. This is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise.

    Wildlife viewing is superb. Jaguar sightings are often reported. The cooler temperatures make exploring the Andes for condors and vicuñas very rewarding.

    May is perfect for combining Amazonian wildlife with Andean discoveries; we love the crisp air in the highlands.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park
    +1

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler temperatures prevail, especially in the Andes. The Amazon remains dry and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing in the Amazon. Birds are active, and mammals are easier to spot against the drier vegetation. Condor sightings are excellent in the Andes.

    We adore June for its reliably dry weather and abundant wildlife; it's ideal for first-time visitors.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    The driest and coolest month. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though nights can be chilly, especially in the Andes.

    Excellent conditions for spotting mammals along riverbanks. Macaw clay licks are particularly active. Andean wildlife viewing, including spectacled bears, is at its best.

    July is sensational for wildlife encounters across the board; we recommend booking well in advance.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and sunny, with temperatures warming up slightly compared to June and July. Nights remain cool.

    Prime time for jaguar and giant otter sightings. The dry season concentrates animals near water sources. Birding remains strong, with many resident species.

    We find August offers a fantastic combination of dry weather and predictable wildlife sightings; it's hard to beat.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season transitioning to Green Season

    The weather remains largely dry, but the first hints of the upcoming rains may appear. Temperatures are warm and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent. The transition period can sometimes lead to increased animal activity as they prepare for the changing season.

    September is a great month to visit before the heaviest rains return; we love the vibrant energy of the rainforest.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    October

    moderate

    Green Season

    Rainfall increases, especially in the afternoons. Humidity rises, and temperatures become warmer.

    The rainforest becomes incredibly lush. Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species arriving. River levels start to rise, opening up new areas.

    We enjoy October for the dramatic green landscapes and the incredible birdlife that thrives in the early rains.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    November

    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, often heavy, tropical downpours. Humidity is high, and temperatures are warm.

    The forest is alive with sound and activity. This is a good time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Macaw clay licks are still active.

    For those who embrace the rain, November offers a truly immersive and less crowded Amazonian experience.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Heavy rains are common, particularly in the afternoons. The environment is very humid and warm.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. Wildlife is abundant, though sightings might require more patience due to dense foliage. Excellent for spotting insects and amphibians.

    We recommend December for its raw, untamed beauty and the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the wet season.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Planning & reference

    We love the feeling of stepping back in time as you wander through these ancient Inca ruins, perched dramatically amidst cloud-shrouded peaks. The sheer ingenuity of the stonework and the breathtaking panoramic views are truly unforgettable. Arrive early to experience the magic before the main crowds descend.

    Gate Times

    The Sanctuary is generally open from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Entry is strictly timed and requires advance booking of a specific circuit and time slot. Tickets sell out months in advance, especially for the classic Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain climbs, which have separate permits and limited daily access. We strongly advise booking your tickets and any additional hikes the moment you decide on your travel dates.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary for guides and drivers. For a private guide for a full day, we recommend around $20-30 USD. For drivers, $10-15 USD per day. While there isn't a formal tipping culture for park rangers or general staff at the entrance, a small gesture of appreciation for exceptional service is always welcome. It's best to tip in USD or Peruvian Soles at the end of your service.

    Dress Code

    Machu Picchu's weather can change rapidly. We recommend dressing in layers. Lightweight, breathable clothing for the day, with a waterproof and windproof outer layer for sudden rain or cooler mountain air. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential. Neutral colours are best for blending in, though at Machu Picchu, this is less about wildlife viewing and more about respecting the historical site. A hat for sun protection is a must.

    Photography

    Photography is permitted throughout most of the site, but tripods are generally not allowed in the main citadel. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Drones are strictly prohibited within the Sanctuary and surrounding areas. The best light for photography is early morning or late afternoon, before the main crowds arrive or as they begin to disperse. Capture the scale of the ruins against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

    Etiquette

    Respect the historical significance of the site. Stay on marked paths and do not touch or climb on the ruins. Keep noise levels down to preserve the atmosphere and allow others to appreciate the serenity. Avoid large group disruptions. When interacting with other visitors or staff, politeness and patience are key. Remember, this is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so treat it with the utmost care.

    What to Bring

    Passport (required for entry)
    Printed or digital copy of your Machu Picchu ticket
    Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
    Water bottle (refillable)
    Sunscreen
    Insect repellent
    Hat with a brim
    Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
    Camera
    Small backpack
    Snacks (limited options inside)
    Hand sanitizer

    Temperature

    4.29°C

    40°F · Range: 1.76–7.52°C

    Rainfall

    273.8 mm

    Heavy rains · 30.2 rainy days

    Humidity

    93.4%

    Sunshine

    8.6 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    2.67 m/s

    9.6 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu Reviews