The Inca Empire, which thrived from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, was located primarily in the Andean region of South America, covering parts of modern-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Chile. The climate in this vast region varied significantly due to its diverse geography.
In general, the Inca homeland featured a range of climates. The coastal areas experienced a desert-like climate with very little rainfall, while the highland region, characterized by the Andes mountains, had a more temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The highland cities, such as Cusco, were situated at high altitudes, meaning they often experienced colder temperatures, especially at night.
Moreover, the Incas were well-adapted to their environment. They developed advanced agricultural techniques, such as terrace farming, to cope with the steep mountainous terrain and varying weather conditions. They also cultivated a variety of crops that thrived in their specific climates, including potatoes and maize.
In summary, the climate in which the Incas lived was diverse, ranging from arid coastal areas to colder highland zones, and they adapted their lifestyle and agricultural practices accordingly to thrive in these conditions.