How is the weather on the Salkantay Trek?. Getting to know your destination well before even booking your plane ticket or making reservations is the difference between enjoying your adventure and living in complete agony every single moment of the trip. Every single place has its fair share of ups and downs. Usually reserved as common knowledge among the locals, these tips and hacks would come as surprises if you’re are a first-timer in Peru

Being world-famous for Machu Picchu-one of the seven wonders of the world, Peru has a lot more up its tourist amusement sleeve. One of the favorite places is the Salkantay Trek. This trek has been an alternative to the Inca Trail for ages and an optional route to reach the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

The Salkantay trail connects Cusco to Machu Picchu’s citadel and ruins a whole length of 89km/ 55 miles with about 5000m elevation. Before setting out for the trek of a lifetime, you will have to consider the region’s weather as it fluctuates month to month.

Dry Season on The Salkantay Trek

The dry season typically runs from late April through early October. And the wet season picks up from late October and ends in April. With the so many months ideal for visiting, you can trek all year round, and for the most part, the trekking season in Machu Picchu happens in the dry season. Most people usually book their spot for the Salkantay trek between May and September.

The weather along the Salkantay trek is varied. In the Salkantay pass and surrounding areas like the Soraypampa lodge, temperatures hit sub-zero, while in other camps. The proximity to the cloud forest makes them warmer.

Wet Season on The Salkantay

The wet season (October to March) is usually rainy, sunny days at 19^oC and freezing nights at 4°C with rain pelting down. The worst months to visit are usually December and February when the rain is unbearable. From April onwards, the area is dry, and you have sunny days at 18°C and even colder nights at -10°C. 

Some areas like the Salkantay Pass are much colder at night with extreme freezing temperatures nearly -10°C, while other tropical regions like the Aguas Calientes have warmer days (26°C) and nights (12°C)

How Cold is The Salkantay Trek?

The temperature in the Salkantay trek is almost predictable. Throughout the year, you’ll have warmer days above 20°C (70/80°F) and colder nights and mornings, which range from above zero to sub-zero on the scale. As you ascend the descend the altitude, you will experience temperature fluctuations depending on the location and height. It tends to get uncomfortably cold as you go higher, so having warmer clothing is a no-brainer.

As you get to July. The cold temperatures intensify during the night, and it gets very hot when the sun is up, even if you are at higher altitudes. As you get closer to the end of the trek at Machu Picchu. It becomes warmer and more humid since you are closer to the high jungle.

Is The Salkantay Trek Dangerous?

The Salkantay trek is no mean feat. It will test you and demand that you be at the top of your hiking and endurance game. You’ll need to be acclimatized as altitude sickness could best you very fast. Staying in Cusco for a few days usually helps to get used to the area’s altitude and climate. Considered just as difficult as the Inca trail, Salkantay promises an experience of heat and cold with equal measure.

The whole trek snakes its way through diverse regions with varied climates and altitudes. Even for seasoned hikers, the Salkantay hike could be challenging and recommended for someone comfortable with multi-day trekking. Altitude sickness is a significant concern during the trek, and if you suspect you won’t manage the 4600m plus elevation, you should get used to it first. To make it easier, the trek is usually taken in slow bits, moving from one point to another and taking up to 5 days to get to Machu Picchu.

Is The Salkantay Trek Worth It?

Salkantay trek is an adventure on its own and the best preview to Machu Picchu. The trek winds itself through diverse regions and the famous Peruvian climate. The hike itself has a much cheaper price than the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days, and the views around the area are breathtaking. There’s a lot to see, from the Highest pass and exotic views of Salkantay mountain to the Humantay Lagoon. As part of the experience, you also get to do some zip-lining across the trek.

Should I Book The Salkantay Trek In Advance?

The trek’s highlight is Machu Picchu, and entry here is only allowed if you have a ticket. Which is purchased in advance, so prior booking comes in handy. Trekking companies always have the tickets on hand, and you can get them earlier.

The Salkantay trek attracts very many people yearly, and everyone will want to visit when it’s the right time to do so-same time you’re thinking of. From the Inca trail to the main event-Machu Picchu, tickets often run out as more people flock in. Booking in advance guarantees entry.

Since the weather around the Salkantay trek is almost predictable, it is obvious to book ahead of the dry months from late April to early October when the rain is gone and the congestion isn’t as bad. However, the Salkantay trek isn’t as busy as the Inca trail, but you still need to book it earlier.