Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike

Huayna Picchu, also known as Young Mountain is located at 2,667m in the region of Cusco. Its circular shaped base is surrounded by the Urubamba River, to the north of the citadel of Machu Picchu. The climb is hard but worth the journey as the views from the top are spectacular. Get a different perpective of Machu Picchu from the top of Huayna Picchu.

The climb to the Huayna Picchu requires physical strength, determination and vigour to reach the top. The walk will take about 1 hour up steep stairs. The trek starts in the Sacred Rock (Roca Sagrada), where you will find dense vegetation, a steep and narrow path, granite stairs with uneven steps, so you must be very careful especially in the wet weather.

According to legend, Huayna Picchu was the monitoring center for Machu Picchu. With the construction of this peak, the Incas would be alerted about any attack.

At the peak, see a lot of buildings used for crops, you can also witness glorious Machu Picchu, the wonderful Urubamba River, 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 photos of Machu Picchu.
• It is located at 2,693 meters above sea level, 300 meters higher than the Inca citadel. See 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 400 people. There are 4 groups or entry times to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu 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 Huaynapicchu.
**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 trail 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 on the cliff face 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.

Hike Up to the Inka Bridge at Machu Picchu

INCA BRIDGE The trail to the Inca Bridge wraps around the backside of a mountain in the opposite direction of the Machu Picchu ruins. A special ticket is not needed to walk the path; however, daily traffic to the Inca Bridge is documented. Moreover, it’s...

See more

The Sun Gate – Inti Punku

The Sun Gate, also known as Intipunku. This an intriguing structure consisting of steps that suggest it served as a control gate for those entering and exiting the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. The Sun Gate holds significant archaeological importance as it serves as a...

See more

Information about the Machu Picchu Mountain

Hike up to Machu Picchu Mountain The majestic Machu Picchu Mountain, towering over 652m/2,139ft above the Inca city, stands proudly at an elevation of 3,082 meters. Offering awe inspiring views, this natural wonder provides a perspective of Machu Picchu that is...

See more