Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu is a protected area in Peru.

Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu at a Glance

Location
Southern Andes & Altiplano, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-13.234200, -72.477420
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.

Getting to Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

Nearest airport: Aeródromo de Abancay, 53 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Capitán Aníbal Arab Fadul (CIJ), 470 km away.

Weather & Climate in Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

The warmest temperatures in Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu occur in February, averaging 4.6°C (up to 7.8°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 3.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 23.2mm. Average humidity: 74.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 4.3°C (rainfall: 273.8mm)
  • February: 4.6°C (rainfall: 213.2mm)
  • March: 4.4°C (rainfall: 240.5mm)
  • April: 4.3°C (rainfall: 121.5mm)
  • May: 3.7°C (rainfall: 72.0mm)
  • June: 3.2°C (rainfall: 37.7mm)
  • July: 3.3°C (rainfall: 23.2mm)
  • August: 3.1°C (rainfall: 51.9mm)
  • September: 3.4°C (rainfall: 100.6mm)
  • October: 4.2°C (rainfall: 148.4mm)
  • November: 4.5°C (rainfall: 200.4mm)
  • December: 4.6°C (rainfall: 247.7mm)

Best Time to Visit Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

The best months to visit Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 4.29°C, rainfall 273.8mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 93.4%
  • February: Poor, temperature 4.61°C, rainfall 213.2mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 92.7%
  • March: Poor, temperature 4.36°C, rainfall 240.5mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 93.6%
  • April: Poor, temperature 4.28°C, rainfall 121.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 89.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 3.72°C, rainfall 72mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 83.3%
  • June: Good, temperature 3.23°C, rainfall 37.7mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • July: Good, temperature 3.26°C, rainfall 23.2mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 74.6%
  • August: Good, temperature 3.14°C, rainfall 51.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 80%
  • September: Poor, temperature 3.43°C, rainfall 100.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 87.8%
  • October: Poor, temperature 4.19°C, rainfall 148.4mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 89.7%
  • November: Poor, temperature 4.46°C, rainfall 200.4mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 91.1%
  • December: Poor, temperature 4.61°C, rainfall 247.7mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 91.2%

Wildlife in Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

Home to 35 recorded species including 11 birds of prey, 9 iconic birds, 8 waterbirds, 6 tropical birds, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

Based on average temperature of 4.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 87%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 4°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 Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu

50 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

mid-range

Similar Parks in Southern Andes & Altiplano

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru

Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu FAQs

When is the optimal time for wildlife viewing and exploring the natural beauty of Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu?

The dry season, from May to October, offers the best conditions for trekking and spotting wildlife like the elusive spectacled bear or diverse bird species. This period provides clearer views of the cloud forest and easier navigation of its extensive trails, complementing a visit to the archaeological site.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter beyond the famous ruins, and what kind of safari activities are available in this protected area?

Beyond the iconic Inca citadel, the Santuario is home to unique species such as the spectacled bear, the vibrant Andean cock-of-the-rock, and over 400 species of orchids. Safari activities primarily involve guided nature walks and birdwatching treks through the cloud forest, focusing on biodiversity rather than traditional vehicle safaris.

What specific health and safety precautions should I take when visiting the Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu, especially regarding altitude and local conditions?

Due to varying altitudes, it's crucial to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness; consider spending a day or two in Cusco beforehand. While malaria precautions are advised, consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and always use insect repellent, especially in lower, more humid areas of the sanctuary.

What are the key costs and permits involved for a comprehensive visit to the Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu, including both the natural areas and the archaeological site?

A visit requires purchasing separate entrance tickets for the Machu Picchu citadel, often booked months in advance, and potentially permits for specific trekking routes like the Inca Trail. Additionally, you'll need to budget for transportation (trains, buses), licensed guides, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes or nearby towns.

How does the Santuario Histórico de Machupicchu manage visitor numbers to protect its natural and cultural heritage, and what can I do to support conservation?

The park implements daily visitor limits for the Machu Picchu citadel and specific trails to minimize environmental impact and enhance visitor experience. To support conservation, adhere to designated paths, do not disturb wildlife, avoid littering, and consider choosing tour operators committed to sustainable tourism practices.

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.