Huayna Picchu
Conquer the iconic Huayna Picchu for breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. A challenging hike with ancient Inca steps and stunning panoramas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Huayna Picchu
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer the iconic Huayna Picchu for breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. A challenging hike with ancient Inca steps and stunning panoramas.
"The hike to the top is a little difficult but it's worth it."
Book Tickets Months Ahead
:ticket: Huayna Picchu tickets sell out fast! Book 3-4 months in advance.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential for the steep and sometimes slippery trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit of Huayna Picchu
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Conquer the iconic peak for breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andes.
The 'Stair of Death'
Huayna Picchu Trail
Navigate steep, ancient Inca steps carved into the mountainside, a thrilling and unforgettable part of the hike.
Inca Terraces and Temples
Huayna Picchu Summit
Discover remnants of Inca ingenuity with ancient terraces and structures offering a glimpse into their civilization.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Huayna Picchu Tickets Early
Assess Your Fitness and Fear of Heights
+1 If you have vertigo, this hike may not be suitable for you. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Months Ahead
:ticket: Huayna Picchu tickets sell out fast! Book 3-4 months in advance.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential for the steep and sometimes slippery trails.
Carry Water & Snacks
:water_bottle: Stay hydrated and energized on this challenging hike. Limited facilities on the trail.
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
:sunrise: Arriving early helps you enjoy the views with fewer people.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Months Ahead
:ticket: Huayna Picchu tickets sell out fast! Book 3-4 months in advance.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential for the steep and sometimes slippery trails.
Carry Water & Snacks
:water_bottle: Stay hydrated and energized on this challenging hike. Limited facilities on the trail.
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
:sunrise: Arriving early helps you enjoy the views with fewer people.
Don't Fear the 'Stair of Death'
:mountain: It's steep but has support. The views are worth the challenge!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Huayna Picchu as an incredible and magical experience, with the challenging hike being well worth the effort for the breathtaking summit views. The ancient Inca engineering and the sheer beauty of the landscape are frequently praised. However, those with vertigo or a fear of heights are strongly cautioned against attempting the climb due to the steep and exposed nature of the trail.
"This is an incredible place, which is a dream of almost every person! I made my dream come true and I recommend it to everyone! The hike to the top is a little difficult but it's worth it."
Tsvetomila Vutova
"An incredible and magical place, this mountain is absolutely worth a visit.
However, it's challenging, and if you have vertigo or fear of heights, don't do it, as you'll be walking on the edge of the abyss and the stairs are very vertical. The path is also well-prepared, with railings, ropes, and steel cables for support. The climb and descent take about two and a half hours, but it's worth staying at the top for a while, as you can see the beginning of the Amazon and other incredible mountains, as well as the citadel and the lush, incredible vegetation."
Viviana Lichner
"The scenery is great!"
mr y
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Huayna Picchu, you first need to get to Machu Picchu. This typically involves taking a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), followed by a bus up to the Machu Picchu citadel. From there, you'll access the Huayna Picchu trail. +4
Most travelers take a scenic train ride from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the main operators. +4
Buses run frequently from Aguas Calientes up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The journey takes about 25-30 minutes. +2
While there is a trail, most visitors opt for the bus for convenience and to save time and energy for exploring the citadel and Huayna Picchu.
No, Huayna Picchu is accessed via the Machu Picchu citadel. You must have an entrance ticket for Machu Picchu that includes access to Huayna Picchu.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Huayna Picchu tickets are sold as a combined ticket with your Machu Picchu entrance. They are limited to 400 per day and sell out months in advance, so book online through the official Ministry of Culture website or a reputable tour operator. +2
It is highly recommended to book your Huayna Picchu tickets at least 3 to 4 months in advance, especially during peak season.
Only 400 visitors are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day, making advance booking essential. +1
Yes, there are different circuits that include Huayna Picchu. Circuit 4 typically includes Huayna Picchu. Ensure your ticket specifies access to the mountain.
The cost of Huayna Picchu tickets is in addition to your Machu Picchu entrance fee. Prices can vary, so check the official ticketing website for current rates.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike up and down Huayna Picchu typically takes between 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.
The hike is considered challenging, with steep ascents, narrow paths, and some exposure. It requires good physical fitness and a lack of fear of heights.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Layers of clothing are recommended as the temperature can change. Bring a rain jacket, especially during the wet season.
The views from the summit are spectacular, offering unparalleled panoramic vistas of the Machu Picchu citadel, the Urubamba River valley, and the surrounding mountains.
The trail can be steep and exposed, with some sections having ropes and cables for support. It's important to be cautious and follow the designated path.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots of Machu Picchu. Look for viewpoints along the trail that capture the dramatic landscape and Inca structures.
The narrowness of some paths and the need to hold onto support cables can make photography challenging in certain sections. Be mindful of other hikers.
Early morning light can be beautiful, but can also be misty. Mid-morning offers clearer views, but with more people. Consider the weather and your personal preference.
Tripods may be cumbersome on the narrow trails. Consider a lightweight travel tripod or rely on your camera's stabilization for best results.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details within Machu Picchu. Ensure your gear is protected from potential rain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Alternatively, exploring Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu, offers activities like visiting the thermal baths 💪 Adventure Seekers
+3 For those looking for an even greater challenge, consider combining your visit with other treks in the region, though Huayna Picchu itself is a significant accomplishment. Remember to book your tickets months in advance to secure your spot on this iconic adventure. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the iconic shots of the citadel nestled within the mountains. Be prepared for challenging conditions; narrow paths and steep drops mean you'll need to be agile with your gear. +1 Early morning light can be magical, but be mindful of potential mist. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge of Huayna Picchu
+1 The trail involves navigating ancient Inca steps carved directly into the mountainside, with some sections requiring the use of ropes and cables for support. +1 This challenging trek, typically taking 2.5 to 3 hours round trip, rewards hikers with unparalleled panoramic views of the entire Machu Picchu complex and the surrounding lush green valleys. Due to its popularity and limited daily capacity of only 400 visitors, securing tickets for Huayna Picchu requires significant advance planning. Travelers are strongly advised to book their combined Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu entrance tickets several months ahead of their visit, as they sell out rapidly.
+1 The hike demands good physical condition and a strong head for heights. Visitors with vertigo or a fear of heights should carefully consider if this trek is suitable for them. Beyond the thrilling climb, the summit of Huayna Picchu holds historical significance. The Incas built temples and agricultural terraces on its peak, showcasing their remarkable engineering skills.
Exploring these ancient structures adds a layer of historical discovery to the already breathtaking natural beauty. Navigating to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu
Once inside Machu Picchu, the entrance to the Huayna Picchu trail is clearly marked. It's crucial to have your specific Huayna Picchu ticket, as access is restricted to those with the correct permit.
The hike itself is a significant undertaking, requiring sturdy footwear and plenty of water. The 'Stair of Death' sections, while intimidating, are equipped with safety features to aid climbers. +2 Remember that the daily visitor limit for Huayna Picchu is strictly enforced, so booking well in advance is paramount. After descending Huayna Picchu, many visitors choose to explore other parts of the Machu Picchu citadel or relax in Aguas Calientes. The town offers thermal baths, restaurants, and souvenir shops, providing a welcome respite after a challenging hike.
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