Discover the heart of the Peruvian Andes with our comprehensive guide to Huayna Picchu Mountain, the iconic backdrop of the Machu Picchu ruins. This guide covers everything from the challenging hike to the breathtaking views that await you.
Huayna Picchu, the towering peak behind the famed Machu Picchu sanctuary, offers adventurers an unparalleled experience. Standing at an elevation of 2,667 meters (8,750 feet) above sea level, this mountain is not just a backdrop but a destination in its own right, promising stunning panoramas and a thrilling climb.
The journey to Huayna Picchu’s summit is exhilarating, featuring well-maintained but demanding trails. Suitable for those in good health and well-acclimated to high altitudes, the ascent presents a rewarding challenge. Hikers navigate steep, narrow paths, often shrouded in mist, adding a mystical feel to the adventure.
Beyond its physical allure, Huayna Picchu holds mysteries of its past. With terraces and structures that hint at its importance to the Inca civilization, possibly serving as a religious sanctuary or a strategic lookout, this mountain continues to captivate scholars and tourists alike.
The trail to Huayna Picchu is known for its steep inclines and vertiginous drops, requiring physical fitness and a head for heights. Entry is strictly regulated, with only 300 hikers allowed daily, necessitating advance ticket purchases. The hike begins from Machu Picchu’s north side and takes two to three hours to complete, offering unforgettable views.
To manage the flow of visitors and preserve the integrity of the site, entry to Huayna Picchu is organized into four groups:
| GROUP | TICKETS | MACHU PICCHU | HUAYNA PICCHU |
| Group 1 | 150 | 6:00 a.m | 7-8 a.m. |
| Group 2 | 150 | 8:00 a.m | 9-10 a.m. |
Tickets provide access to Machu Picchu via Circuit 5, with the option to explore more of the site by purchasing additional entrance tickets for Circuit 1 or 2.
There are two shifts that are available to explore Huayna Picchu.
Huayna Picchu is an essential destination for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding experience. Although the climb covers a distance of less than one kilometer, the sense of accomplishment you feel with every step makes the effort worthwhile.
The altitude gain from Machu Picchu to Huayna Picchu is 952 feet (290 meters).
Situated within the Machu Picchu complex, Huayna Picchu retains an air of mystery as to its exact purpose. It is thought that the Incas built terraces, temples and a variety of other structures on the mountain and may have integrated them into the wider landscape of Machu Picchu. Scholars speculate that Huayna Picchu may have functioned as a religious sanctuary, a defensive fortress or even a watchtower. In addition, the ruins found at the summit are thought to have been a site for ceremonies or religious rituals, and the remains at the very top have revealed that this great construction was not finished. We will see what science has in store for us in the future.
The experience of hiking Huayna Picchu is one that will be remembered for a long time, as it combines a physical struggle with spectacular rewards. Starting from the north side of Machu Picchu, the trek begins with a difficult climb that takes two to three hours and culminates in a view that encompasses Machu Picchu and its surrounding Urubamba Valley. Along the way, you will encounter narrow, often treacherous roads that zigzag uphill, with each stop offering an inspiring view of Machupicchu in the distance. The summit offers panoramic views and a sense of achievement; its strategic location allows the opportunity to pause and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and see the city of Machu Picchu 1000 feet directly below; it is simply amazing!
Huayna Picchu is located to the north of Machu Picchu. It can be accessed by walking through Machu Picchu, following Circuit 4, for approximately twenty minutes after entering the Inca site.
Huayna Picchu is located to the north of Machu Picchu. It can be accessed by walking through Machu Picchu, following Circuit 4, for approximately twenty minutes after entering the Inca site.
The trail to Huayna Picchu mountain is steep and exposed, with vertiginous drops. Some parts of Huayna Picchu require handrails for balance, so it is important to be physically fit and free of vertigo.
The ascent hike is difficult because of its uneven steps and steep, narrow, zigzagging trail.
However, once at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views that make the effort worth it.
You will have the opportunity to do any tour you have planned and do Huayna Picchu mountain, you only have to consider the time of entrance to Huayna Picchu. However, our tours are done first for two hours, then you can do your hike to the mountain of Huayna Picchu. for this you will have to make the reservation in advance for the appropriate time for the mountain of Huayna Picchu.
Recommended shifts for the tours to climb Huayna Picchu
Classic inca Trail 4 days : Group 2
Short Inca Trail 2 Days: Group 1 and 2
Alternative Treks: Group 1 and 2
Machu Picchu day tour: Group 2
