Huayna Picchu Mountain, translated from Quechua, means “Young Mountain”. It has an elevation at 2,667m or 8,750ft and is located at the foothills of the Andean Mountains. Huayna Picchu, because of it’s great views, is one of the more popular hikes at Machu Picchu. Make sure you book early if you want to ensure a chance to hike this mountain.
Many people hike this mountain and for good reason. The trek is 4km or 2.4 miles in total and takes you through the lush vegetation of the Andean Cloud Forest. After hiking through the vegetation, arrive at the notorious “Stairs of Death”. These stairs are both steep and narrow, this trail is not dangerous. Along the way, find handrails and ropes to help guide you. Upon completing “The Stairs of death”, Arrive at the summit where the views of Machu Picchu are spectacular. The Urubamba river flows below meandering through the valley surrounded by mountains and various Inca ruins.
Additionally, there is another hike to the Temple of the Moon on the opposite side of the mountain. If you choose to do this hike it will add at least an extra hour to your trip. Temple of the Moon adds an extra hour to your overall hike, however you wont be disappointed. The Temple is cut from stone and resides inside a cave that historians believe was used for ceremonies, ritual sacrifices or revering the moon. After returning from the Huayna Picchu summit, make sure to explore the area around the Temple of The Moon. It is recommended not to spend too much time at the summit as to make room for other tourists.
PLEASE NOTE:
***The ascent to the summit is comprised of steep stone steps and can be slick when raining. Make sure you have boots with good tread before attempting this hike.
***Please consider that this hike may not be for everyone. Take into consideration your physical condition before committing to a ticket purchase. This hike is particularly difficult during the wet season.
***The hike does not include a guide but, there are staff situated at key points of the trail for your safety. If you want a guide you must reserve in advance be aware there will be an additional cost.
*** Make sure you arrive on time for your scheduled ticket. Anyone who arrives late will not be able to hike Huayna Picchu!
HOW MANY TICKETS ARE THERE?
UPDATE: The amount of tickets has been reduced to 200 per day!
The number of daily tickets has been reduced to 200 from 400 of the previous year. Being a very popular hike, please make sure you book this hike a few months in advance as there is a high possibility they will sell out.
COST
An additional US$75 per person
Reasons to hike Huayna Picchu Mt
- Perfect picturesque views of the Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu as well as the surrounding natural beauty.
- An additional sense of accomplishment after conquering this mountain.
- Potentially you will not visit Machu Picchu more than one time, so make the most of your visit!
- You have the opportunity to visit areas like the moon temple that are not accessible by other routes.
- Some of the best photo opportunities in all of the Machu Picchu complex.
Is it possible visit Machu Picchu and hike Huayna Picchu on the same day?
It is possible to do both on the same day however, you will have to take the early 5:05am train to Aguas Calientes tour Machu Picchu from 8:00-9:00am, then hike Huayna Picchu starting at 10:00am.
Things to know
- Altitude of 2,720 m or 8,923 feet
- Total distance 4km 2.4 miles
- Only hikers 12 years and over are permitted
- Located north of Machu Picchu
- At times the trail can be difficult because of the steep steps and need for ropes and bridges
- A limit of 400 tickets per day
- Various different archeological sites including the moon temple.
- Generally 1.5-2.5 hours to complete
What to see in Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Terraces with flying stairs and houses.
Close to the summit you will arrive at some Incan dwellings, some of which have been meticulously restored, and the “flying stairs”. The stairs protrude out from the terrace walls allowing access from one level to the other. There is a bit of distance from one stair to the another so you may have to jump to reach the next stair.
Tunnels in the Huayna Picchu Mountain
Just before summiting Huayna Picchu you’ll approach a small tunnel. The tunnel is so narrow you will need to crawn in order to get to the other side. Historians believe that the tunnel was used in order to form a choke point from invaders attempting to enter Machu Picchu.
The Moon Temple
The majority of tourists only hike the mountain for its amazing views of Machu Picchu. However, if you have the time and energy don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Moon Temple. On average it takes 4 hours to summit Huayna Picchu and visit the Moon Temple. This temple is expertly cut from solid stone and is an excellent example of Inca master stonework.
Special fauna
There are Viscachas living in and around the surrounding rocks, various different birds and lizards as well call this place home. If you are fortunate you may come across the illusive spectacle bear and Andean cock-of-the-rock bird.
What to bring to Huayna Picchu Mountain?
- Huayna Picchu Ticket.
- Hiking shoes/boots with good tread.
- Passport.
- Raingear
- Backpack
- Long sleeves t-shirt and pants for sun and insect protection.
- Sunscreen
- Light food
- Camera
- Insect repellant
- At least two liters of water (There is no fill point on the hike)
