The mountain “Huayna Picchu” comes from the origin of the quechua language which means “Young Mountain”. It is located north of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, Peru at an altitude of 2,693 meters above sea level or 8835 feets. From the top of this mountain you will have a panoramic view and you will have the ability to appreciate all the splendor of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, the Andean mountain range, the snowy peaks, etc.
Definitely reaching the top of Huayna Picchu is a challenge because the access is a bit difficult, the path is narrow in some points and it can be difficult for people that struggle with vertigo. Therefore, good physical and mental condition is required.
Huayna Picchu climb is a steep and rugged mountain that rises above Machu picchu. It’s situated to the north of the main citadel and is often depicted in photographs overlooking the ruins. Huayna Picchu is the majestic cone-shaped mountain often seen in the background of Machu Picchu’s most famous photographs and postcards.
Access to Huaynapicchu is limited due to its steep terrain and the need to preserve the archaeological site. A limited number of tickets are sold each day to visitors who want to climb the mountain. These tickets often need to be purchased in advance, and it’s recommended to book well ahead of your visit.
The temperature can change between 50 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 and 30 degrees Celsius. Keep in mind that clothing for all weather conditions should be packed when hiking Wayna Picchu Mountain.
People are allowed to climb Waynapicchu in two daily shifts, divided into two groups:
| Altitude | 2.693 m.a.s.l. |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 2h 30m (ascent and descent) |
| Level of Difficulty | Moderate – Difficulty |
| Distance to the mountain top | 2km. |
| Number of people allowed per day | 400 |
| Age allowed to climb Waynapicchu | 12 years old or older |
| Archaeological attractions | Ruins, Temple of the Moon, agricultural terraces, etc. |
The maximum number of visitors allowed to Huaynapicchu is 400 people, distributed in two groups of 200 each.
Group Schedule:
First Group: 7:00 am to 8:00 am.
Second Group: 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
If you choose to do any kind of trek or tour with Alpaca expeditions you are allowed to hike Huayna Picchu mountain (depending on the availability) especially on the day that you will be in Machu Picchu site. For example, one of our tours is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5D/5N, the 5th day you have the chance and the time enough to hike the Machu Picchu mountain at any time, remember your train back should be in the afternoon.
Except for the Inca Trail of 4D/3N, doing this tour there is not enough time to visit the mountain on the last day, because you’ll finish the tour in Machu Picchu around 11am.
It is important to book 3 to 4 months in advance as they often sell out quickly, due to the fact that the number of people allowed on Huaynapicchu Mountain is limited to 400 daily.
Tickets to Huaynapicchu are subject to availability, therefore we recommend that you contact the Alpaca Expeditions team phone number at the top of our website or through our contact us form.
May, June and July are the best months to hike Waynapicchu. It is during the dry season, as the views are better and the chances of bad weather are lower. From April to October there is little chance of rain.
On a rainy day it is recommended not to climb Huaynapicchu as the path can be slippery and dangerous. However, if you decide to climb, it is important to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for rain.
The ascent to Huaynapicchu mountain is not dangerous, but it presents certain risks. If you follow the route plan and the instructions of the guides, take the necessary precautions, the ascent can be safe. Before climbing Huayna Picchu it is advisable to research about the weather conditions and be prepared for them, as well as to bring enough water and snacks. But do not worry, because during the tour there are people in charge of security who ensure the welfare of visitors and help in case of any emergency.
The Great Cavern or the famous “Temple of the Moon” is one of the most incredible constructions close to Waynapicchu.
It is built inside a natural cave. It has finely carved stone structures.
The Incas had a respect for rocks and caves, as they believed they could connect them with the world of the dead.
In the center of the Temple of the Moon there is a throne-like surface. Some researchers suggest that sacrifices may have been made there.
There is no clear idea of what the function of the Temple of the Moon was but for sure it was a secret and sacred place for the Incas.
The only way to visit this enigmatic place is to get the Huayna Picchu permit.
The Terraces of Machu Picchu are an extension of the agricultural land of the Incas and today give a unique landscape to the Inca Citadel. Among the main crops grown by the Incas were grains such as corn, kiwicha, quinoa and kañiwa.
*Guard house:
The function of the Guardian’s House was to guard the Inca citadel. In its interior, there are windows with scenic views of Machupicchu stand out.
During the beginning of the tour there are no complications, but in the course of the hike to Huaynapicchu the road is steep and narrow at some points. Please keep in mind it is important to respect the signage during the tour. It is also essential to be in good physical condition to make the trek to the top of Waynapicchu.
To enter Machu Picchu it is mandatory to have a Tourist Guide, however if you have the Machu Picchu + Huaynapicchu permit it is not necessary to have a tour guide to climb this, but it is recommended to hire a guide to get detailed information about the archaeological site. However, it is important to follow the regulations and rules established by the Peruvian government and the authorities in charge of the national park.
Its elevation gain from the ground is 1.000 feet (360 meters) and the total distance to trek, going up and down, is 2.5 miles or 4 kilometers.
The Huaynapicchu view is one the best. You will have a 360 degree view at the top, which will allow you to see the Inca site of Machu Picchu, the course of the sacred river Willkamayu (Urubamba) and the Andean mountain range.
Summit views: Incredible views from the summit.The Urubamba river and the surrounding mountains also contribute to the picturesque landscape.
On the way to Huaynapicchu we have great variety of Flora as more than 200 species of orchids, most of them endemic and endangered, bromeliads many of these growing on rocks or trees, ferns more than 50 from small varieties that cover the ground to large ones that live in the trees.
About Fauna it is possible to see many birds such as green parrots and sparrows early in the morning. In addition to the impressive spectacled bear and many lizards and insects, especially mosquitoes.
In case of not finding availability to enter Waynapicchu Mountain, a similar alternative would be to visit Machu Picchu Mountain. Also you have a small hike that you could climb up just in case there are no entrances. It is Huchuy Picchu mountain which takes around 1 hour to go and back.
The use of metal tip poles is forbidden, however older adults may carry rubber tip poles. It is also forbidden to carry walking sticks, umbrellas, portable seats and tripods.
It is important to book 3 to 4 months in advance as they often sell out quickly, due to the fact that the number of people allowed on Huayna Picchu Mountain is limited to 400 daily.
Tickets to Huayna Picchu are subject to availability, therefore we recommend that you contact the Alpaca Expeditions team phone number at the top of our website or through our Contact Us form.
The ascent to Huayna Picchu mountain is not dangerous, but it presents certain risks. If you follow the route plan and the instructions of the guides, take the necessary precautions, the ascent can be safe. Before climbing Huayna Picchu it is advisable to research about the weather conditions and be prepared for them, as well as to bring enough water and snacks.
But do not worry, because during the tour there are people in charge of security who ensure the welfare of visitors and help in case of any emergency.
During the beginning of the tour there are no complications, but in the course of the hike to Huayna Picchu the road is steep and narrow at some points. Please keep in mind it is important to respect the signage during the tour. It is also essential to be in good physical condition to make the trek to the top of Waynapicchu.
On a rainy day it is recommended not to climb Huayna Picchu as the path can be slippery and dangerous. However, if you decide to climb, it is important to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for rain.
It is not necessary to have a tour guide to climb the mountain, but it is recommended to hire a guide to get detailed information about the archaeological site. However, it is important to follow the regulations and rules established by the Peruvian government and the authorities in charge of the national park.
From the top of the mountain you can enjoy:
– The natural beauty of the ruins of Huayna Picchu.
– The Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon: incredible Inca construction.
– The Agricultural Terraces: Terraces built by the Incas on the mountainside to grow crops.
– Panoramic view of the citadel of Machu Picchu, the Andean mountain range, the sacred river Willkamayu (Urubamba), etc.
The maximum number of visitors allowed to Huayna Picchu is 400 people, distributed in two groups of 200 each.
Group Schedule:
First Group: 7:00 am to 8:00 am.
Second Group: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
In case of not finding availability to enter Waynapicchu Mountain, a similar alternative would be to visit Machu Picchu Mountain.
Do you want to experience an unforgettable journey? Our Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is the perfect opportunity! In 4 days, you’ll hike through the most stunning landscapes that the Incas used to reach their sacred city. You’ll learn about Inca culture and have the chance to climb Huayna Picchu, the mountain that offers the best views of Machu Picchu.
In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.
Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.
Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.
Porters will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items, which must include your sleeping bag and air mat (if you bring or rent one). From us, these two items weigh a combined total of 3.5 kg.
