🌧️ Cusco Weather Update: What You Need to Know Before Traveling
Lately, Cusco has been experiencing heavy rains, causing some landslides and disruptions on roads, especially in rural areas and routes connecting to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. While the city remains operational, it’s important to stay updated on weather conditions and road status.
✈️ If you’re traveling soon, here are some key tips:
✅ Check the weather forecast daily and follow official updates.
✅ Contact your tour agency or accommodation for any schedule changes.
✅ Have a backup plan in case of road closures or delays.
✅ Pack waterproof gear and sturdy shoes for rain and slippery paths.
Despite these challenges, Cusco remains an amazing destination with plenty of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences to enjoy
Cusco’s Rainy Season & Trekking Conditions
If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, especially for trekking adventures, it’s important to be aware of the current weather conditions. Right now, heavy rains are affecting several trekking routes, making some trails more challenging and even unsafe in certain areas.
👟 Salkantay Trek & Choquequirao: What’s Happening? 👟👟👟
- Salkantay Trek, one of the most popular alternative routes to Machu Picchu, is currently experiencing unstable conditions due to heavy rain and landslides. Some sections of the trail are muddy, slippery, and risky for hikers. If you’re considering this trek, it’s best to check with local guides and tour operators for the latest updates.
- Choquequirao Trek is also affected, though conditions vary depending on the section of the trail. Rain can make steep paths more difficult to navigate, so proper preparation is essential.
👉 What Can You Do?
💪 updated on weather forecasts and road conditions before your trek.
💪 with local tour operators to see if the trek is safe and if there are alternative routes available.
💪Be flexible with your plans—Cusco has many amazing experiences to offer, even if trekking isn’t an option.
💪Pack the right gear—waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and trekking poles can make a big difference.
💪 alternative experiences, such as cultural tours, day hikes in safer areas, or visiting sites like the Sacred Valley.
These are the Trails affected by the heavy rains
- Salkantay trek to Machu picchu
- Choquequirao trek to machu picchu
- Inca trail 4 day to machu picchu until 15 of march
- Short inca trail to machu picchu until 15 of march too
Cusco’s Holy Week: Processions, Traditions & A Unique Cultural Experience ( March) 2025
Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Cusco is one of the city’s most important celebrations, blending Catholic traditions with deep-rooted Andean customs. The city comes alive with religious processions, cultural events, and a unique atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors.
🌿 Holy Monday: The Lord of the Earthquakes
The most iconic event of Holy Week in Cusco is the procession of the Lord of the Earthquakes (Señor de los Temblores). This dark-skinned image of Christ, blackened over centuries by candle smoke and incense, is carried through the streets of Cusco’s historic center as thousands of worshippers honor Him by throwing red ñucchu flowers.
Legend says that in 1650, this image helped calm a massive earthquake, earning it a place as Cusco’s patron saint. Today, its procession is the most awaited event of the week, filling the city with faith and devotion.
Holy Thursday: The Tradition of the 12 Dishes
On Holy Thursday, food plays a special role in Cusco’s traditions. Many families prepare 12 traditional dishes, symbolizing Jesus’ 12 apostles. Some of the most common dishes include:
👉 Corn or shrimp soup
👉 Salted codfish stew or olluco with cheese
👉 Matasquita (a fish and vegetable dish)
👉 corn pudding (mazamorra morada)
👉 like rice pudding and «suspiros»
Meat is not consumed on this day as a sign of reflection and respect.
✝️ Good Friday: Processions & Reflection
Good Friday is a solemn day marked by processions and re-enactments of the Passion of Christ. Many churches hold Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross), and people observe fasting and prayer.
🎉 Easter Sunday: A Day of Celebration
Easter Sunday marks the resurrection of Jesus and the conclusion of Holy Week. While it is not as grand as Holy Monday, churches hold special masses, and families gather to celebrate the occasion.
🛑 Tips for Experiencing Holy Week in Cusco
🔹 Book your stay in advance, as Cusco gets very crowded.
🔹 Respect local traditions and join the celebrations with an open heart.
🔹 Try the traditional Holy Week dishes for an authentic experience.
🔹 Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the processions involve a lot of walking.
Holy Week in Cusco is more than just a religious event—it’s a fusion of faith, history, and culture that showcases the city’s rich traditions. If you’re in Cusco during this time, you’re in for an unforgettable experience! 🙏
✨ Tips for Traveling to Cusco & Machu Picchu During Holy Week (Semana Santa) ✝️
If you’re visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu during Holy Week (March 24-31, 2024), expect a mix of cultural traditions, large crowds, and some travel challenges. Here’s how to make the most of your trip!
💪 1. Expect Big Crowds & Book Everything in Advance
Semana Santa is one of the busiest times in Cusco, with thousands of locals and tourists participating in religious events. To avoid issues:
👉 Book your hotel, Machu Picchu tickets, and train tickets weeks in advance.
👉 Arrive early for tours and processions to get a good spot.
👉 Visit Machu Picchu on quieter days (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid peak weekend crowds.
⛪ 2. Experience the Local Traditions
Holy Week in Cusco is a unique cultural experience. Don’t miss:
✅ Holy Monday (March 25): Procession of the Lord of the Earthquakes, the most important religious event in Cusco. The streets will be packed!
✅ Holy Thursday (March 28): The tradition of the 12 dishes – try traditional Holy Week food in local restaurants.
✅ Good Friday (March 29): Religious processions & fasting traditions – some restaurants may have limited menus.
✅ Easter Sunday (March 31): Church services & family gatherings, but a quieter day overall.
🏔️ 3. Machu Picchu: Plan for Rain & Crowds
March and April are part of Cusco’s rainy season, so be prepared:
✅ Bring a rain jacket or poncho – sudden showers are common.
✅ Wear waterproof shoes – trails can be muddy.
✅ Take the first bus to Machu Picchu (before sunrise) to avoid the biggest crowds.
🚖 4. Transport & City Navigation
🚕 Traffic in Cusco will be heavy, especially around Plaza de Armas. Walk when possible!
🚂 Trains to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) will be full – reserve tickets ASAP.
🛑 Some roads may be closed for processions, so plan extra time for transportation.
🍽️ 5. Food & Restaurants
✅ Try the traditional 12-dish meal on Holy Thursday – many restaurants offer this special menu.
✅ Some places may close on Good Friday – check ahead if you have a favorite spot in mind.
✅ Markets and street food will be extra busy – be patient and enjoy the local flavors!
💰 6. Bring Cash
Banks and ATMs may be busier than usual, and some businesses may close for religious observances. Always carry enough Peruvian soles for taxis, markets, and small purchases.
📅 7. Best Days for Sightseeing
Since religious events dominate the week, here’s a strategy:
⛺ Monday-Wednesday – Best for exploring Cusco’s sites like Sacsayhuamán, San Pedro Market, and the Sacred Valley.
⛺ Thursday-Friday – Focus on Holy Week traditions and processions.
⛺ Saturday-Sunday – Great for Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain.
Cusco is magical during Semana Santa, but it requires good planning and patience due to the high number of visitors. If you embrace the experience, you’ll witness one of the most beautiful cultural celebrations in Peru! 🇵🇪
💻💻 to Visit Cusco & Machu Picchu 💻💻💻
If you’re thinking about traveling to Cusco and Machu Picchu during Semana Santa (March 24-31, 2024), don’t wait too long to book
🚆 Train tickets are selling out fast, and prices are increasing due to high demand.
🎟️ Machu Picchu entry tickets are running low, especially for popular time slots and hikes like Huayna Picchu.
🆗 You Should Do Right Now: 🆗🆗
✔️ Book your Machu Picchu tickets ASAP on the official site or with a tour operator.
✔️ Secure your train tickets (PeruRail or IncaRail) before prices go up even more.
✔️ Reserve your accommodation—hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes are filling up quickly.
✔️ Plan your itinerary carefully to avoid last-minute surprises.
Plan Your Perfect Trip to Peru & Machu Picchu with Us
Thinking about visiting Machu Picchu during Holy Week? Don’t stress about the details—we’ve got you covered! At Inca Trail Classic, a local and experienced tour company, we’ll make sure your trip is smooth, unforgettable, and 100% hassle-free.
✅ Guaranteed Machu Picchu & train tickets – No last-minute surprises!
✅ Expert local guides – Bringing history and adventure to life.
✅ Small groups & personalized service – Travel comfortably and at your own pace.
✅ Authentic experiences – From the classic Inca Trail to hidden gems beyond Machu Picchu.
🚀 Spots are filling up fast for Holy Week! Book now and let us take care of everything while you enjoy the magic of Peru. Holy Week is a beautiful but extremely busy time in Cusco. If you want to experience it without stress, book everything now!
