Travel time: Year-round
Ollantaytambo, situated at 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) in the Sacred Valley, experiences a subtropical highland climate defined by two primary seasons rather than the traditional four. Because of its proximity to the equator, solar radiation is intense year-round, while its elevation ensures the air remains cool to moderate.
This is the period of the "Andean Summer," characterized by brilliant blue skies and steady, predictable weather. Rainfall is nearly non-existent, making it the peak time for clarity and visibility of the surrounding peaks. While the days are pleasantly warm, the dry air leads to rapid heat loss after sunset. This season sees the most dramatic temperature swings, with nights often dipping near freezing (0°C to 4°C / 32°F to 39°F).
Known as the "Green Season," this period sees the valley transform into a lush, emerald landscape. Rainfall usually peaks between December and March. Unlike tropical monsoons, rain here often follows a predictable daily pattern: mornings frequently start clear and sunny, with clouds building in the early afternoon and culminating in short, heavy bursts of rain or thunderstorms. Total daily sunshine is lower, and humidity makes the air feel slightly warmer and "softer" than in the dry season.
In Ollantaytambo, you often experience "four seasons in one day."
Ollantaytambo sits at a strategic "convergence zone" where the cool air of the high Andes meets warmer, moister air moving up from the Amazon basin. This creates unique microclimates within the town itself:
The local Quechua-speaking population has adapted to this volatile climate for centuries. Historical weather data shows that while temperatures are consistent, the regularity of the rains is shifting due to broader climate patterns, affecting traditional rain-fed agriculture. Locals often use the "Callejón" (alleyways) between high walls to navigate the town while staying shielded from the afternoon winds and the harsh midday sun.