Things you should know
If you plan to hike the Salkantay Trail in Peru, it’s important to know what to expect in terms of weather during each month of the year. The Salkantay Trail is a popular alternative to the Inca Trail and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including high-altitude passes, remote Andean villages, and lush tropical forests.
Best time to do the Salkantay trek
The best time to undertake Salkantay trekking is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is usually clearer and drier, providing better conditions for hiking and enjoying clearer views of the spectacular landscape.
May to September is considered the peak season for Salkantay trekking, with July and August being the busiest months. These months offer the most stable weather conditions, but also attract a large number of hikers.
Salkantay weather by month
- April
April marks the start of the dry season in the Andes, making it a popular time to hike the Salkantay Trail. Expect mostly clear skies, warm days and cool nights, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) during the day to 0°C (32°F) at night. There can be occasional showers towards the end of the month, so it’s important to bring waterproof clothing. - May
May is one of the best months to hike the Salkantay Trail, as the weather is still dry and there are fewer people than during the peak season. However, temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), and nighttime temperatures below freezing. - June – July
June and July are the peak months for trekking the Salkantay Trail, with the driest and most stable weather conditions. Days are sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 23°C (73°F), and nighttime temperatures close to 0°C. Be prepared for crowds, though, as this is the most popular time of year to visit. - August
August remains a popular month for trekking the Salkantay Trail, with dry weather and slightly cooler temperatures than in June and July. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. - September
September marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season in the Andes. Days are still mostly sunny, but rain can be expected towards the end of the month. Daytime temperatures range from 15 °C (59 °F) to 20 °C (68 °F), while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. - October – November
October and November are characterised by wetter weather conditions, with occasional rain and snow. Daytime temperatures range from 12 °C (54 °F) to 18 °C (64 °F), while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. However, these months can be a good time for hiking, as there are fewer people than during peak season. - December – March
December through March is the wettest and coldest time of year to hike the Salkantay Trail. Heavy rain and snowfall are expected, especially at higher altitudes, making the trail more challenging and potentially dangerous. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
Weather in the Salkantay Trek: Forecast
There are several online resources that can provide you with the most up-to-date weather information for the Salkantay trek. Some useful websites include:
- Accuweather.com : Offers daily and hourly weather forecasts for Machu Picchu, which is located near the start of the Salkantay Trail. You can also check the 15-day weather forecast to plan your hike.
- Weather.com : Provides detailed forecasts for Cusco, the closest major city to Salkantay. You can also check the weather for Mollepata, the starting point for many Salkantay Trek itineraries.
It is important to check the weather forecast before setting out on the Salkantay trek and prepare for a variety of weather conditions. The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so it is always advisable to bring appropriate clothing and equipment for hot, cold, rainy and snowy weather. Additionally, it is suggested to consult with a reputable trekking company for advice on the best time to trek based on current weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold is it on the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek passes through diverse ecosystems and altitudes ranging from 1,900 meters (6,200 feet) to over 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) above sea level. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the temperature tends to drop.
During the day, temperatures can vary from mild to hot, especially in the lower areas, with temperatures between 15 °C and 25 °C (59 °F and 77 °F) in areas such as Mollepata or Soraypampa. However, as higher altitudes are reached and at night, temperatures can drop significantly. At camps at about 3,800 metres (12,500 ft) or higher, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, with ranges of -5 °C to 5 °C (23 °F to 41 °F), or even colder.
How cold is it at the Salkantay Pass?
The Salkantay Pass, a key section of the trek, can be quite cold, especially at night. During the day, the weather can be sunny, but at night the temperature often drops below 0 °C (32 °F), particularly in the peak months (June to September). On occasion, temperatures can drop to -10 °C (14 °F), especially at night.
In which months can you go trekking to Salkantay?
The best months to trek Salkantay are from April to October, which is the dry season. During these months, the weather is more stable, with less rain and clearer skies.
What is the weather like on the Salkantay trek route?
The Salkantay Trek covers five days and 70 kilometers, crossing different altitudes, from 2,040 meters to 4,600 meters. This means that you will experience a variety of climates and temperatures. The maximum temperature is in Aguas Calientes (24°C on average), while the minimum is experienced at the Salkantay Pass (approximately 0°C).
During the trek, the average temperature ranges from 10°C to 16°C, with mild days and cold nights. The rainy season is from November to March, while the dry season runs from April to October, with little rain.
Summary: Weather during the Salkantay Trek
- Day 1: From Cusco to Soraypampa (3,900 masl) via Mollepata. The day includes a visit to the Humantay lagoon. Temperatures range from 14°C to 2°C, with an average of 10°C. Warm clothing is recommended, especially for the night.
- Day 2: Start in Soraypampa and ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m), followed by a descent to the Chaullay camp. Temperatures range from 15°C to 6°C, with an average of 10°C. Light clothing is recommended for the day, but warmer clothing is required for the night.
- Day 3: Hike downhill from Chaullay to Lucmabamba (2,062 m), entering the high jungle. Temperatures range between 15°C and 22°C, with an average of 18°C. It is recommended to wear light clothing, a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
- Day 4: Steep hike to Llactapata and then to the Hydroelectric Power Plant, ending in Aguas Calientes. Temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C, with an average of 21°C. It is necessary to bring light clothing, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Day 5: Final hike to Machu Picchu (2,490 masl) from Aguas Calientes. Temperatures range from 16°C to 24°C, with an average of 23°C. It is recommended to bring light clothing, sunscreen, repellent and essential items such as a passport.
Questions and answers about the weather on the Salkantay trek
- What is the maximum altitude on the Salkantay trek? The highest point of the adventure is the Salkantay Pass, which is located near the snowy peak and reaches an altitude of 4,600 meters above sea level.
- What is the lowest altitude on the Salkantay tour? The lowest altitude on the tour is at the Hydroelectric Station, where lunch is served on day 4 of the trek. This station is located at 1,550 meters above sea level.
- What is the maximum temperature? The highest temperature of the trek is usually reached on the fourth day, at the Hydroelectric Station, with temperatures of up to 24°C and minimum temperatures of approximately 17°C.
- And what is the minimum temperature? The lowest temperature is experienced on the first night, at the Soraypampa camp, where it can drop to 0°C or less.
- What clothes should I bring on the Salkantay trek? Warm clothing is recommended for the first night and light clothing for the rest of the days. Don’t forget to bring a windbreaker, rain poncho, sunglasses, cap, leggings , shorts, cotton socks, and any other clothing you consider necessary.
- When is the best weather to do the Salkantay trek? The best period to do the trek is from April to October, during the dry season, as there is little chance of rain, which makes the trek easier.
- When is the worst weather for hiking this route? The rainy season, from November to March, is considered the most challenging. Although the landscapes are greener, it is essential to bring a poncho and waterproof clothing, especially in January, February and March, which are the rainiest months.
- Is it very cold on the Salkantay trek? The cold is most intense on the first night at the Soraypampa camp, where temperatures can drop to 0°C. The second day is also cold, especially at the Salkantay Pass, with temperatures close to 2°C.
Dry season on the Salkantay trek
The dry season runs from late April to early October. During this time, the weather is more stable and favourable for trekking. Temperatures at the Salkantay Pass and in Soraypampa can drop to below freezing levels, while at other camps closer to the cloud forest, the weather is warmer.
Rainy season on the Salkantay trek
The rainy season, from October to March, brings torrential rains and freezing nights. In December and February, rainfall can be very intense. During the dry season, days are sunny with temperatures around 18°C, and nights can be very cold, reaching -10°C in high areas such as the Salkantay Pass.
How cold is it on the Salkantay Trek?
The climate on the Salkantay trek is varied. During the day, temperatures can exceed 20°C, but mornings and nights are cold, especially in the higher altitude areas, where they can drop below 0°C. In general, the climate becomes warmer and more humid as you get closer to Machu Picchu, due to the proximity to the high jungle.
Is Salkantay trekking dangerous?
The Salkantay Trek is a demanding hike that will test your endurance. It is essential to acclimatize before starting, as altitude sickness can be a challenge. It is recommended to spend a few days in Cusco to adjust to the altitude and climate. Although not as heavily traveled as the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is equally challenging and is recommended for people with experience in multi-day treks.
Is Salkantay trekking worth it?
The Salkantay trek is undoubtedly a unique adventure. It offers stunning views of the Salkantay Mountain and the Humantay Lagoon, and is a cheaper alternative to the Inca Trail. In addition, the experience includes the possibility of zip-lining along the route.
Should I book the Salkantay Trek in advance?
Yes, it is advisable to book in advance, especially to secure your entry to Machu Picchu. Although the Salkantay Trek is not as crowded as the Inca Trail, it is still popular, and tickets to Machu Picchu often sell out. It is best to book during the dry season, between late April and early October, when the weather is more favorable and rainfall is scarce.
Local meteorological wisdom: the Andean method
In the Andean highlands where Machu Picchu is located, locals have developed unique methods for predicting the weather. For centuries, they have observed natural indicators to forecast weather conditions:
- Animal behavior : Locals observe the movements and behaviors of birds and livestock, such as the llamas of Machu Picchu. For example, if birds fly low, it is a sign that rain is coming.
- Plant life : Certain plants, such as Puya raimondii , known as the “Queen of the Andes,” are thought to bloom most vividly before a heavy downpour.
- Cloud formations : They also pay attention to the shape and movement of clouds. Cumulus clouds that form during the day often indicate afternoon showers.
- Traditional festivals : Some festivals, such as the Fiesta de San Juan, are associated with good weather and are celebrated with rituals that ask for protection and good fortune during travels.
These local traditions can enrich your travel experience, giving you a unique perspective to understand the climate of Machu Picchu.
Tips to stay healthy and safe in all types of weather in Salkantay
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your health and safety when exploring Machu Picchu, regardless of the weather:
- Hydration : Staying hydrated is essential in any season. Carry a reusable bottle and consider bringing water purification tablets if you are unsure of the source.
- Sun protection : The sun in the Andes can be very strong. Always wear high factor sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the dry season.
- Footwear : Investing in waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support is essential. Your feet will thank you, especially in wet seasons.
- First Aid : Bring a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and medications for headaches or stomach problems.
- Weather Apps : Keep a weather app handy to stay informed about real-time conditions, allowing you to adapt your gear and plans.
