When should I hike Salcantay?
The best time to hike is the May through September dry season. We hiked in October — it was quite overcast.
Should I hike off-season?
There is no one to stop you trying any month. Transportation to Soraypampa trailhead from Mollepata may be impossible in bad weather — you might need to walk from town.
In the wet season, snow on Salcantay pass may stop you.
Avoid February & March when even the Inca Trail is often closed.
What is the weather like?
Being close to the equator, cold is not a major concern except on Salcantay Pass. The annual maximum temperature varies from 20° to 27°C. Nice.
The monthly minimum temperature ranges between 5°C and 11°C. Not bad either.
Muddy trails are the biggest problem. November & December rain means heavy mud. Some trails are badly chopped up by animals.
January through March, when the rain is worst, could make sections of the trail a mud bath.
