Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike

Huayna Picchu, also known as Young Mountain in its translation from Quechua into Spanish, and is located at 2,667m in the region of Cusco. Its circular shape base is surrounded by the Urubamba River, to the north of the citadel of Machu Picchu. Every step of this journey is worth it because you get to experience a view of the Inca land that few get to see. Experience the citadel in its fullest and most spectacular angle.

The journey to the Huayna Picchu is one of the most complicated, riskiest and probably the most difficult to undertake. It requires physical strength, determination, and vigour to reach the top. The journey will take about 1 hour up steep stairs. The road starts in the Sacred Rock (Roca Sagrada), where you will find dense vegetation, a steep and narrow path, and granite stairs with uneven steps, so you must be very careful.

According to the story, Huayna Picchu was the monitoring centre of the citadel of Machu Picchu since this archaeological complex was threatened by other surrounding cultures for its pristine lands. With the construction of this peak, the Incas would be alerted about any attack.

At the peak of this mountain, you can see a lot of buildings used for crops near the abyss. From this point, you can also witness glorious Machu Picchu, the wonderful Urubamba River, and to the north you can enjoy a view of the Temple of the Moon.

Why is it worth climbing the Huayna Picchu?

• The Huayna Picchu is the mountain that is north of Machu Picchu. It is the summit that stands out in the classic postcard photos of this Wonder of the World.
• It is located at 2,693 meters above sea level, 300 meters higher than the Inca citadel. On its roads is the Temple of the Moon, a religious site carved in stone.
• The Huayna Picchu is one of the most requested adventures by the visitor. The climb to the top is considered one of the most incredible short walks in the world.

Schedules for Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu

This ticket has a daily availability of 200 people. There are 4 groups or entry times to Machu Picchu and Waynapicchu mountain.

• Group 1 – Entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am. The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is from 7 am to 8 am
• Group 2 – Entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am. The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is from 8 am to 9 am
• Group 3 – Entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am. The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is from 9 am to 10 am
• Group 4 – Entrance to Machu Picchu from 9 am. The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is from 10 am to 11 am

*It is a good idea to book this ticket 4 months in advance. It is the one that runs out the fastest.
**Only those over 12 years old can access the Waynapicchu.
**Not suitable for people who fear heights.

Huayna Picchu Mountain Facts

• Restrictions: Only for those over 12 years of age.
• Altitude Gain: 340 m/ 1,115 feet.
• Height: 2,720 meters/ 8,923 feet.
• Location: Situated directly to the North of the ruins of Machu Picchu.
• Trail Description: The trails and steps are very steep. The path narrows towards the upper section of the trail and goes up a tall staircase. Pass stone ruins clinging to cliff precipices. There are handrails and ropes to grab onto for extra support, but it’s a scary experience for anyone with a fear of heights.
• Height to climb from Machu Picchu: 353 meters /1,158 feet.
• Height to climb from Moon temple: 420 meters / 1,401 feet.
• Access: From the Inca City of Machu Picchu, through the Sector de las Huayranas (Sacred Rock). Here you will find a small shack with a gate to access Waynapicchu mountain.
• Archaeological Attractions: Terraces and the unparalleled Temple of the Moon, built inside a natural cave and a tunnel
• Advantages: the Inca structures by the cliff blow your mind and the amazing mountain environment where it is located.
• Disadvantages: steep ascent, narrow roads.
• The number of visitors: 400 tourists per day.
• Walking Time
• Short Trail: 2 hours roughly (round trip)
• Full trail: 3 hours and 30 minutes roughly (round trip)

What to bring to Huayna Picchu Mountain

• Original Passport.
• Huayna Picchu Ticket (you can’t hike without this).
• Trekking shoes.
• Long sleeves t-shirt and pants to protect from mosquitoes and sunburn.
• Lightweight raincoat or Rain poncho especially in the rainy season
• Backpack.
• 2 liters of water. There is not any stream to refill your bottle.
• Energy snack.
• Sunglasses.
• Insect repellent.
• Sunscreen.
• A camera.

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