If you're planning a visit to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru, you can't miss the imposing presence of Huayna Picchu Mountain. This majestic peak, which rises dramatically above the horizon, not only serves as a spectacular backdrop for the archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu, but also offers a unique experience for the most intrepid adventurers.
Huayna Picchu Mountain not only impresses with its visual beauty, but also represents an unparalleled challenge and opportunity for travelers looking to go beyond the conventional. With steep trails and panoramic views that literally take your breath away, this mountain adds a dose of adrenaline and excitement to your visit to Machu Picchu.
Do you dare to conquer its heights and discover dreamlike landscapes? Don't wait any longer! Book your adventure now and live an experience you'll remember forever. Huayna Picchu awaits you!
In 2025, the entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain will remain open.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain has been reduced from 400 to 200 people per day.
Touring Huayna Picchu with a tour guide is not mandatory.
As in previous years, entry is permitted for those 12 years and older accompanied by a guardian or parent.
The time limit for visiting both Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain is 6 hours from the time the tourist enters.
These are the updated schedules for the ticket 'Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu (Route 3A)'.
Starting in 2024, the new entry times to the Huayna Picchu mountain are divided into only two groups.
All allow entry to Waynapicchu and the Inca City of Machu Picchu (circuit 3 or royal circuit).
| Huayna Picchu ticket groups | Entry time to Machu Picchu | Entry time to Huayna Picchu |
| Group 1 | From 6 am to 6.30 am | Until 8 am |
| Group 2 | From 9 am to 9.30 am | Until 11 am |
The first group allows you entry to the Inca City of Machu Picchu from 6 am to 6.30 am.
Entry to Huayna Picchu mountain is until 8 am.
The second group allows entry to Machu Picchu from 9 am to 9.30 am.
Entry to Huayna Picchu mountain is until 11 am.
The most important thing to remember when hiking Huayna Picchu is to be safe. We recommend coming with hiking shoes, especially if you're coming to Machu Picchu during the rainy season. Despite these advantages, remember that the paths are made of stone and can be very slippery when wet.
You'll need to bring rain protection. Even if you don't come during the rainy season (November through April), it can rain at any time in Machu Picchu, so come prepared.
Another thing you shouldn't forget is your camera, with extra memory and batteries.
The opportunities for incredible views of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu Mountain are endless.
You should also bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent, all of which should fit into a small purse or backpack, as you'll need your hands free to navigate the impressive cliffside trails.
If you didn't book your Huayna Picchu tickets far enough in advance or couldn't find tickets available for the days you wanted, we recommend opting for the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain or Wayna Picchu ticket (Route 3A).
This ticket will allow you to enter Machu Picchu Mountain and get incredible aerial views of the Inca city. There are 400 tickets available for this ticket, and you can book them up to two weeks in advance on average.
If you come during peak season (June through August), in this case, all Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be booked approximately one month in advance.
The Temple of the Moon is the most mysterious structure you can see on Huayna Picchu Mountain.
It is built inside a cave high in the mountain, and the quality of the stonework found there is comparable only to sites like the Temple of the Sun or the Temple of the Three Windows at Machu Picchu.
In 2025, the Temple of the Moon is closed to the public until further notice.
The trail
The trail begins with a gentle slope, shared with those heading to Huayna Picchu Mountain. At a crossroads, following a sign, take the path to the right that leads to Huayna Picchu, an ancient Inca site of vigilance and rituals. From the base, the ascent is via steep Inca stone stairs, totaling approximately 750 steps. Some sections are secured with ropes for added safety. During the rainy season, the stones can become slippery, and although there are shaded areas, it is advisable to protect yourself from the sun.
Along the trail, you will find platforms to rest and capture photographs of the impressive landscape. From there, you can admire the Inca architecture, the agricultural terraces, and see Machu Picchu gradually receding into the distance. Near the summit, you will face the challenging "stairs of death" and a narrow tunnel before reaching the most spectacular panoramic views. At the summit, you have two options to continue your exploration:
Long Trail: At the summit, a sign indicates the route to the "Great Cave," home to the Temple of the Moon, an impressive Inca religious structure built into a cave. This less-traveled route offers a more peaceful experience. The trail descends steeply down stone steps on the back of the mountain, then continues on a gentler slope, passing by the Temple of the Moon, before ascending again to return to Machu Picchu. During this hike, you will delve into the lush vegetation of the cloud forest, walking along stone and dirt paths.
This name, although dramatic, is more shocking than realistic. Despite rumors, no one has lost their life climbing these stairs, and they don't actually pose a significant danger (unless you suffer from vertigo). The section got its name from the steepness of its steps, which give the impression of standing on the edge of an abyss. To facilitate the ascent, safety cables have been installed, although you can also choose to climb using your hands and feet. Should you lose your balance, there are platforms that act as natural barriers, preventing dangerous falls. Of course, the feeling of vertigo is undeniable, especially during the descent. But, in short, they are not as deadly as their name suggests.
Maximum altitude: 2,693 meters / 8,835 feet
Short trail hike distance: 2 km / 1.2 miles
Short trail hike time: 2 hours (round trip) (round trip)
Long Trail Hike Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
Long Trail Hike Time: 3 hours (round trip)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
+51 84 217 551
+51 997 434 941
Av Tupac Amaru PP-10B, Santiago, Cusco, Peru
info@incatrailmachu.com
www.incatrailmachu.com
