Uncover the Mystique of Huaynapicchu: Climb to the Summit of Peru’s Stunning Young Mountain!
Huaynapicchu Mountain, also known as Waynapicchu, is a captivating rocky peak that towers over Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring ancient city in Peru. Translated from Quechua, Huaynapicchu means “Young Mountain.” Situated near Machu Picchu, it is encircled by the meandering Urubamba River.
Ascending to approximately 2,720 meters (8,920 ft) above sea level, Huaynapicchu stands about 360 meters (1,180 ft) taller than Machu Picchu itself. On its summit, you will find residential chambers that were once inhabited by esteemed individuals, including high priests and astronomers. A remarkable ritual took place each morning before sunrise, as the high priest and a small entourage made their way to Machu Picchu to herald the arrival of a new day.
To embark on a hike up Huaynapicchu Mountain, it is necessary to obtain an entrance ticket for the Machu Picchu complex and a separate permit specifically for Huaynapicchu. As a result, hikers of the Inca Trail are required to pay an increased fee of $65. The purchase of an Inca Trailpermit includes access to Machu Picchu, while the inclusion of Huaynapicchu necessitates an additional ticket to the ruins and the corresponding permit, thereby contributing to the higher cost.
Note:
Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain towering over Machu Picchu, is a must-do experience once you are at this historic site. While the Inca trail can offer similar views from the Sun Gate due to being at the same elevation, if you are exploring alternative treks or opting for tours by train, we highly recommend including Huayna Picchu in your itinerary.
BOOK HUAYNAPICCHU TOUR
Climb The Mountain of Huayna Picchu:
Climbing Huaynapicchu Mountain is an exhilarating experience that requires good physical condition, but it is not overly challenging. The ascent takes approximately 45 minutes, with an equal amount of time for the descent, consisting of many stairs. However, if you have a fear of heights, we advise against attempting the climb due to its steepness.
Access to Huaynapicchu is limited to only 400 visitors per day, so we recommend purchasing tickets in advance online to secure your spot. The climb to the summit is steep and occasionally exposed, but steel cables are available for support. Please note that during the rainy season, the tours may be temporarily closed for safety reasons. It is also important to note that the climb is not recommended for individuals in poor physical condition.
If you are interested in climbing Huaynapicchu Mountain, we advise booking it simultaneously with your Inca trail, alternative treks, or any tours to Machu Picchu. This is because only 400 people are allowed to climb it per day.
Huayna Picchu Climb Times:
To climb Huayna Picchu, there are two designated time slots. The first slot is from 7:00 am to 8:00 am, allowing 200 people to ascend. It is important to note that climbers must return to Machu Picchu by around 10:00 am. However, during this timeframe, the weather conditions may not provide clear views due to the typically humid and cloudy mornings.
The second slot is from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, accommodating another 200 climbers. We recommend this time slot to our travelers as it allows you to explore Machu Picchu in the morning and often offers better views as the clouds dissipate.
It is important to understand that we cannot control the weather conditions or guarantee clear views at the summit. We apologize if you encounter cloudy or rainy weather during your climb. Please be informed that the hike remains open unless there are extreme weather conditions. Kindly note that tickets will not be refunded due to inclement weather.
Temple of the Moon:
Huayna Picchu, located opposite the mountain, houses the remarkable “Temple of the Moon” – an exquisitely adorned natural cave. Despite its name, the purpose of this architectural wonder remains a mystery, with theories ranging from religious worship to funerals. Referred to by some as “the Great Cavern,” it contains additional intricate carvings on its walls and floor.
For an opportunity to behold the Temple of the Moon, embark on the ascent to the summit of Huayna Picchu. Should you require assistance in securing tickets for Huayna Picchu or any other attractions in the vicinity, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Huaynapicchu Mountain Info:
- TREKKING DIFFICULTY: moderate to challenging
- HEIGHT: 2,693 m.s.n.m.
- WALK DISTANCE: 2 km, steep and narrow roads.
- LOCATION: North of the Inca City of Machu Picchu.
- ROAD DESCRIPTION: The trails are quite steep; you will need ropes to overcome some parts of the road. You will cross step built in rock and wooden stairs; the road is visually terrifying.
- ACCESS: From the Inca City of Machu Picchu, through the Sector of the Huayranas (Sacred Rock). Here you will find the entrance control booth to the mountain.
- SCHEDULE TIMES:
- FIRST GROUP: 07:00 hrs. – 08:00 hrs.
- SECOND GROUP: 10:00 hrs. – 11:00 hrs.
- NUMBER OF VISITORS: 400 per day, divided into two groups of 200.
- WALKING TIME: 2 hours and 30 minutes (up and down).
- DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY: Moderately high. It is a steep mountain, with precipices and many steps (not recommended if you suffer from vertigo).
- ARCHAEOLOGICAL ATTRACTIONS: Andenería and the amazing Temple of the Moon, built inside a natural cave.
- FLORA AND FAUNA: Landscape of jungle brow, abundant vegetation, which serves as a habitat for birds, butterflies and insects.
- ADVANTAGES: Some of the best panoramic views of the Inca City and the amazing mountain environment where it is located.
- DISADVANTAGES: Precipices covered with vegetation, steep ascent, and narrow roads.
Huaynapicchu Mountain photos
SEE THE VIDEO OF HUAYNAPICCHU HERE
Featured Tour & Treks to Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu Day Trip
- Machu Picchu By Car 2 Days
- Machu Picchu Luxury Tour 2 days
- Machu Picchu & Huaynapicchu Tour 2 days
- Machu Picchu Sunrise Tour 2 days
- Machu Picchu Adventure Tour 5 Days
- Machu Picchu Classic Tour 4 Days
- Machu Picchu Explore 5 Days
- Machu Picchu Cultural Tour 6 Days
- Machu Picchu Magic Tour 5 Days
- Machu Picchu Peru Tour 6 Days
- Machu Picchu Amazon Trip 7 days
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