Huayna Picchu

Climbing Huayna Picchu is not just a walk; it’s a decision that few dare to make without thinking it through. This place, known for its narrow trail and unique view of Machu Picchu, is also one of the most questioned spots among travelers. Is it worth it? Is it safe? In this blog, we will tell you what’s not always said, so you can make the best decision before facing this mountain.

General Information about Huayna Picchu

• What is Huayna Picchu?

  Huayna Picchu is a mountain located in the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, in the Cusco region of Peru. It has an altitude of approximately 2,720 meters above sea level and is situated just behind the Inca citadel. Its name comes from the Quechua language and means “young mountain.”

  This mountain is known for offering an impressive panoramic view of Machu Picchu and for preserving Inca structures on its slopes, such as terraces and stone paths.

• History of Huayna Picchu

  The Huayna Picchu mountain was annexed to the Inca Empire under the rule of Emperor Pachacutec (1418 A.D. – 1471 A.D.). The construction of the Inca city dates back to 1450 A.D. In addition to temples, enclosures, and terraces, the Incas built hundreds of stairways to reach the summits of the mountains surrounding the citadel: Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain.

  For just over a hundred years, the Incas continued building structures and temples on Huayna Picchu. However, in 1535, due to the wars between the Incas and Spaniards, the inhabitants of Machu Picchu abandoned the area. As a result, constructions on Huayna Picchu, such as the Temple of the Moon, were left unfinished.

  Since the global announcement of its discovery in 1911 and the excavation work at Huayna Picchu, the mountain has been open to tourists. Today, it is one of the top adventures in Machu Picchu. Entry is included with a ticket separate from the general admission. This ticket is one of the most sought-after by visitors.

• How many steps does Huayna Picchu have?

  This is where you’ll get a leg workout! Huayna Picchu has 1,600 continuous steps that you’ll need to climb one by one. There’s no alternate route to avoid them, so you’ll have to face them head-on. Along the way, you’ll find steep steps, and in some sections, smaller ones so it’s important to be cautious while walking.

• Have you heard about the “Stairs of Death” on Huayna Picchu?

  These stairs are the most difficult section of the trail to the summit of Huayna Picchu. They consist of a set of one hundred stone steps with an average incline of up to 60 degrees. Due to the difficulty of this path, you must use both hands to hold on to each step.

  Despite their name, no one has lost their life on these stairs. They are located near the end of the ascent trail. Extra caution is required on the way back down. For added safety, there are ropes to hold on to while ascending or descending this part of the trail.

Tickets and Access

• How to get tickets for Huayna Picchu?

  Let’s make it easy! Getting tickets for Huayna Picchu is very simple. I recommend purchasing them online through the official website tuboleto.cultura.pe or on our website iMachupicchu, where you can check real-time availability for your travel date and make the payment on either platform.

  • First step: Go to either of these websites and have your ID or passport ready.
  • Second step: You will find a form where you must choose the option “Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route” and correctly fill in your information.
  • Third step: Confirm your reservation by making the corresponding payment for the number of travelers. Important! The ticket is individual, not group-based.
  • Fourth step: After making the payment, you can download your ticket and save it on your phone or print it and bring a physical copy.

• How far in advance should I buy tickets to Huayna Picchu?

  To ensure you get your ticket to Huayna Picchu, it is recommended to book at least 3 months in advance. Ticket availability is very limited and demand is usually high, so they sell out quickly.

  If you encounter difficulties making the reservation, you can delegate the process to your travel agency. They will take care of everything so you don’t have to worry during your trip.

• What to do if tickets for Huayna Picchu are sold out?

  If tickets for Huayna Picchu are sold out, you won’t be able to purchase them at that moment. In this case, one option is to postpone your trip to a date with availability and be more proactive when booking the ticket.

  Another alternative is to choose a different route, such as Machu Picchu Mountain, which also offers stunning views of the citadel and of Huayna Picchu. Take note! You can only choose this option if there are still tickets available for Machu Picchu Mountain.

• Is there a daily visitor limit for Huayna Picchu?

  Yes, there is a daily limit for visitors to Huayna Picchu. Only 400 people are allowed to enter the mountain each day. This measure was implemented to protect the trail to the summit and prevent crowding, allowing you to enjoy the hike more peacefully.

  Also, Machu Picchu offers several routes, and each requires a specific ticket. If you don’t have the correct ticket, you won’t be able to access Huayna Picchu Mountain or other routes.

  Note: If you want to learn more about the Machu Picchu citadel or take the classic visit route, known as “Route 2-A: Designed Route,” you will need to purchase an additional ticket, which includes access to both Huayna Picchu Mountain and the Machu Picchu citadel. Take note! At the entrance, both tickets will be required, so make sure to have them ready.

Schedules and Entry Routes

• How many time slots are there to climb Huayna Picchu?

  To enter the Huayna Picchu mountain, there are only two available time slots: 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Up to 200 people are allowed entry during each time slot.

  What happens if I don’t arrive on time? If you don’t enter during your assigned time slot, your ticket will become invalid, and you won’t be able to access either the Machu Picchu citadel or Huayna Picchu mountain. A simple oversight could mean missing the opportunity entirely.

• Which time slot is better to climb Huayna Picchu?

  Let’s be practical! If you’re traveling during the dry season, both time slots are equally recommended. The choice will depend on how you’ve planned your itinerary.

  However, if your visit coincides with the rainy season, you should consider the presence of fog. In this case, it’s more advisable to choose the 9 a.m. slot. Why? Because as you ascend, the fog usually begins to clear, and once you reach the summit of Huayna Picchu, you’ll be able to enjoy clear views of the Machu Picchu citadel. It will definitely be worth it!

• How long does it take to go up and down Huayna Picchu?

  First, you should know there’s no exact time to go up and down Huayna Picchu, as each traveler moves at their own pace. On average, the full hike takes between 2 and 3 hours. Heads up! This is just a reference some travelers make it quickly, while others prefer a slower, more relaxed pace.

  If you’re not used to regular physical activity, it’s best not to rush on the ascent. The physical demand may be greater than it appears, and you could end up exhausted or with muscle soreness which isn’t ideal if you have other activities or travel planned for the next day.

Difficulty and Safety

• Is it dangerous to climb Huayna Picchu?

  It’s not dangerous as long as you follow your guide’s instructions and act responsibly. If you’re the kind of traveler who tends to ignore rules, this route could pose a risk both to yourself and to others who are also climbing or descending the mountain.

  You should know that the path is steep and features many steps, which are small and become even narrower in certain sections. To add a bit of adrenaline, the route borders cliffs, so a misstep or careless behavior could result in an accident.

• Is it safe to climb Huayna Picchu when it rains?

  As mentioned earlier, the route has certain challenges and risks, so your safety largely depends on you. Along the way, you’ll encounter tricky segments, but there are sections with metal cables installed to help you maintain balance and get through the tough spots.

  What if there are no support points? In that case, you’ll need to proceed with great caution and keep a positive attitude. In some parts of the trail, many people use both hands and feet for stability both while ascending and descending. You can take the same precautions.

  It’s also good to know that there are small areas along the route where you can rest. In some parts, you might even find park rangers who often assist in the more demanding zones.

• What to do if you have vertigo or fear of heights?

  If this applies to you, it’s very important to avoid climbing this mountain. Why? Because climbing and descending this route can greatly intensify your fears. Along the way, you’ll encounter high viewpoints and drop-offs right next to the path. Additionally, the trail is extremely steep, which can make the viewing angle overwhelming.

  Although this destination is not prohibited for those with vertigo, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being. If you’re a traveler seeking amazing views without putting yourself in frightening situations, a great alternative is Machu Picchu Mountain, which has more stable, calm, and less exposed paths.

• Have there been any accidents on Huayna Picchu?

  Don’t worry! First of all, you should know that there have been no reported deaths on Huayna Picchu mountain. However, there have been some incidents in the Machu Picchu citadel and along the Inca Trail, often caused by recklessness or health complications. So take a deep breath and relax you’ll be fine as long as you visit Huayna Picchu responsibly.

  Accidents? There are no official reports of serious cases on this mountain, although some articles mention tourists who, by behaving recklessly or playing near dangerous areas, experienced minor falls before even climbing Machu Picchu Mountain.

  Heads up! If you want a safe and risk-free trip, your attitude is the most important factor. With caution and responsibility, your experience will be entirely positive.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

• What clothes should I wear to climb Huayna Picchu?

  I see you want to be well prepared! First of all, it’s important to know that you should wear clothing that allows you to move freely, since the trail is rugged and your flexibility will be key. Here’s a short list of what you could bring:

  • Trekking or athletic pants
  • Trekking shoes (Avoid dress shoes or casual sneakers)
  • Long-sleeve shirt
  • A cap or hat
  • A lightweight or waterproof jacket
  Note: It’s very important to avoid wearing dress or urban-style clothing. Why? Because these clothes won’t provide the flexibility you need, which could restrict your movement and lead to accidents. On top of that, since they’re designed for calm environments with no physical demands, they could get damaged along the way and you probably don’t want to end up with ripped pants, right?

• What should I carry in my backpack for Huayna Picchu?

  Now let’s talk about what you should carry in your backpack. First, keep in mind that it’s not necessary to bring too much. The idea is to travel as light as possible so you can keep your hands free and maintain better stability while climbing or descending Huayna Picchu. Here’s a short list of essentials:

  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Snacks
  • ID and/or passport
  • Camera (GoPro recommended)

• Can I bring trekking poles to Huayna Picchu?

  Yes, trekking poles are allowed as long as they have rubber tips. However, they won’t be very useful due to the steep and rocky terrain.

  As a recommendation, it’s better to avoid bringing poles to Huayna Picchu, as they can be cumbersome to carry or use, and might even pose a safety risk. Many travelers who’ve hiked this mountain prefer to use their hands for extra support and stability during the climb.

• Are there bathrooms or facilities along the Huayna Picchu route?

  Curious traveler! Along the route to Huayna Picchu, you won’t find any restrooms—neither on the trail nor inside the Machu Picchu citadel. Is there a solution? Of course there are restrooms located near the entrance gate to the citadel, and you should definitely use them before starting your ascent. That’ll save you from any surprises while climbing the mountain.

  It’s also important to monitor your water intake. Drinking too much could lead to discomfort and make the hike more difficult. Keep in mind that if you decide to return midway to use the restrooms, you won’t be allowed to re-enter and continue the hike. Plan your route wisely!

• Do I need to be in good physical condition?

  Yes, it’s advisable to be in good physical shape to climb Huayna Picchu, although you don’t need to be an athlete. The trail will challenge you physically throughout the entire hike, as there are no flat sections and the ascent is continuous.

  Before your trip, it’s highly recommended to prepare physically to improve your endurance and flexibility. You can do exercises such as walking, running, or swimming. This way, you’ll be ready to hike up and down Huayna Picchu without getting tired too quickly.

  Note: If you have medical conditions that affect your heart or breathing, it’s important to avoid this route. Your well-being comes first. Why? As mentioned earlier, the physical demand is unavoidable, which could pose a risk to your health. Additionally, in case of an emergency, evacuation could be difficult due to the mountain’s terrain.

How to Get to Huayna Picchu

• What is the best time to climb Huayna Picchu?

  The dry season, which runs from May to September, is preferred by many travelers. During these months, the weather is more stable, reducing the risk of accidents due to rain or landslides, and allowing for better views without fog obstructing the Machu Picchu citadel.

  What if I’ve already booked my trip during the rainy season? If you’re visiting during the rainy season, it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully. Try to hike when the fog has begun to lift, usually in the late morning. It’s also essential to wear the right clothing: include waterproof and quick-drying garments to protect yourself from the rain and stay comfortable during the hike.

• How do I get to Huayna Picchu from Cusco?

  • First step: The first step is to leave the city of Cusco and head to the Ollantaytambo train station. This journey takes approximately 2 hours by road.
  • Second step: Once at the Ollantaytambo station, board the train to the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo). This ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • Third step: Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, go to the CONSETTUR bus station. There, you’ll take a bus that will take you to the main entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel.
  • Fourth step: Once at the entrance gate, head to the control checkpoint and show your entry ticket. With that, you’ll be able to access both the citadel and the Huayna Picchu mountain route.

• Can I go to Huayna Picchu on my own?

  Yes, it is possible to visit Huayna Picchu on your own. It’s not mandatory to hire a travel agency or tour guide to access the mountain or any of the circuits within the Machu Picchu citadel. That’s why some travelers choose to go independently, as long as they are familiar with the route.

  However, if it’s your first time visiting the mountain and you’re not familiar with the way, it’s recommended to get help from a travel agency. They can help organize your visit, arrange entry tickets, transportation (like train tickets), and offer assistance to make your trip smoother and more successful.

Image Gallery of Huayna Picchu Mountain

By Imachupicchu – Last updated, April 29, 2025