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Portada / Useful information for travel to Peru / Data for traveler / Tips and recommendations on how to get to Huayna Picchu mountain

Tips and recommendations on how to get to Huayna Picchu mountain

Huayna Picchu or Wayna Picchu Mountain has an elevation of 2,720 meters above sea level, nearly 300 meters above the citadel of Machu Picchu. Therefore, it is important to know certain details if you plan to ascend to the summit.
Huayna Picchu Cuscoperu.com
One of its main features is the steepness of its slopes.

Huayna Picchu mountain is filled with Inca archaeological remains such as stairs, agricultural terraces, and the famous Moon Temple, which is a construction made within a natural cave.

The path leading to the summit of Huayna Picchu mountain has, on one side, the rock wall of the mountain and on the other, a chasm of 200 to 300 meters to the bottom of the ravine, where the Urubamba River can be seen in the distance. This causes a natural human reaction of fear and vertigo in the early stages of the ascent.

However, it should be noted that despite the dangerous ascent and the unfathomable abysses throughout the journey, there are no official records of visitors having perished on Huayna Picchu mountain.

The mountain is mostly composed of rock on which the Incas carved their steps and paths to the summit, with a single path used for both ascent and descent.

5 TIPS FOR CLIMBING HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN

1. What is the best time of year to visit Huayna Picchu Mountain?

The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is located in the department of Cusco, in the southeastern part of Peru. This region features two distinct seasons: the rainy season, which typically starts in November and ends in late March, marked by abundant downpours covering almost all of the Cusco department; and the dry season, which begins in late April and lasts until August or September.

At CuscoPeru.com, we recommend travelers visit during the dry season, as these months typically have fewer cloudy days, which is ideal for taking excellent photographs, and avoid the inconveniences of rain (mud, wet clothes, slippery paths). One advantage of the rainy season is the fewer number of visitors, providing more space to explore this world wonder.

Summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain. Source: CuscoPeru.com
View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain

2. How much does a ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain cost?

The ticket for entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain costs an average of USD 75, and this ticket also includes entry to the Machu Picchu citadel on Royalty Circuit 3 or Lower Part + Huayna Picchu. Tickets are not sold for the mountain alone.

If you have issues booking your Tickets to Machu Picchu, flights, or hotels, at CuscoPeru.com we have a team of tourism professionals with over ten years of experience who will gladly address all your questions and concerns. Write to us and leave a message at: info@cuscoperu.com.

3. How many tickets are available for entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain?

The Ministry of Culture of Peru is the body responsible for the care and preservation of this incredible Inca work, and it is also in charge of managing and issuing entry tickets to both the Machu Picchu citadel, Huayna Picchu Mountain, and Machu Picchu Mountain.

4. How many shifts are there for entering Huayna Picchu?

Entry times to Huayna Picchu Mountain are divided into groups of 50 people each, as only 200 people are allowed per day.

First group:

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 6 a.m.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu: Between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m.

Second group:

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 7 a.m.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu: Between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.

Third group:

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 8 a.m.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu: Between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Fourth group:

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 9 a.m.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu: Between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
View of Huayna Picchu. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Ensure the time slot you want by booking at least 3 months in advance.

5. What should I bring to Huayna Picchu Mountain?

The area around Huayna Picchu Mountain is in the cloud forest, where rain, humidity, and the presence of plants and animals are constant, so we recommend bringing the following items to ensure that your hike and travel experience are not marred by small but bothersome issues:

  • Shoes or boots with anti-slip soles (rubber): This is one of the most important items to consider, as it is a safety feature that will prevent slipping and falling while ascending, in addition to providing comfort and convenience.
  • Camera with ample memory: If you want to take the best photos of Machu Picchu and its surroundings, we recommend bringing a professional camera.
  • Mosquito repellent: This will prevent mosquito bites from ruining your experience.
  • High-grade sunscreen: This will prevent you from ending the day with sunburned shoulders, back, and face.
  • A water bottle: It is very important to stay hydrated while hiking, and it's essential to note that there are no vending stations nearby.
  • A wide-brimmed hat or cap: This will provide the shade and coolness needed on the ascent.
  • Small backpack: To carry all necessary items and allow your hands to be free and ready for any eventuality.

Above all, do not forget to enjoy this experience, as you will likely experience a mix of emotions—joy, euphoria, satisfaction, and delight upon reaching the summit, which has changed the lives of many travelers.

Every year, the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is visited by tens of thousands of tourists. However, there is an additional adventure to the citadel tour that allows us to live an unforgettable experience: the climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain.

View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Huayna Picchu Mountain is the backdrop in most photos of Machu Picchu.

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