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Chica Wayna Picchu

Tips and recommendations on how to get to Huayna Picchu mountain

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

The summit of Huayna Picchu is full of Inca archaeological remains, such as stairways, agricultural terraces, and the famous Temple of the Moon, a structure built inside a natural cave.

The path leading to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain has, on one side, the mountain’s rock wall and, on the other, a 200- to 300-meter abyss down to the bottom of the ravine, where the Urubamba River can be seen in the distance. This causes the human body to react naturally with a feeling of fear and vertigo during the first stages of the ascent.

However, it is important to clarify that, despite how dangerous the ascent may seem and the unfathomable abysses along the entire route, there are no official records of visitors having died on Huayna Picchu Mountain.

The mountain is composed mostly of rock, on which the Incas carved its steps and paths to the summit, with only one trail used for both the ascent and the descent.

5 Travel 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 southeast of Peru. This part of Peru is characterized by having two clearly defined seasons: the first is the rainy season, during which heavy downpours cover almost the entire Cusco region; this season generally begins in November and ends in late March. The second is the dry season, which starts in late April and ends in August or September.

At CuscoPeru.com, we recommend traveling during the dry season, since there are hardly any cloudy days during these months, which is ideal for taking excellent photographs, in addition to avoiding the inconveniences caused by rain (mud, wet clothes, slippery trails). One of the advantages of the rainy season is the smaller number of visitors, which gives you more space to visit this world wonder.

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

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

The ticket to enter Huayna Picchu Mountain costs an average of USD 53; this ticket also includes admission to the Machu Picchu citadel with Royalty Circuit 3 or the Lower Part + Huayna Picchu. It is not possible to buy admission to the mountain only.

If you have any difficulties booking your Machu Picchu Tickets, transportation, or hotels, at CuscoPeru.com we have a team of tourism professionals with more than ten years of experience who will be happy to answer all your questions and concerns. Write to us and leave us a message — we will gladly assist you: info@cuscoperu.com

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

The organization responsible for the care and preservation of this incredible Inca work is the Ministry of Culture of Peru, which is also the entity in charge of managing and issuing admission tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel, Huayna Picchu Mountain, and Machu Picchu Mountain.

4. How many entry time slots are there for Huayna Picchu?

The entry times for Huayna Picchu Mountain are divided into two groups of 175 people each, since only 350 people per day are allowed to enter.

First group

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 7:00 a.m.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu: Between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.

Second group

  • Entry to Machu Picchu: From 9:00 a.m.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu: Between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
View of Huayna Picchu. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Secure the time slot you want by booking at least 3 months in advance.

5. What should I bring to Huayna Picchu Mountain?

The area where Huayna Picchu Mountain is located is part of the high jungle, 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 spoiled by small but annoying inconveniences:

  • Shoes or boots with non-slip soles (rubber): This is one of the most important items to consider, since it is a safety essential that will help prevent slipping and falling while we climb; in addition, it provides comfort and convenience.
  • Camera with enough memory: If you want to take the best photos of Machu Picchu and its surroundings, we recommend bringing a professional camera.
  • Mosquito repellent: It will keep mosquito bites from ruining your experience.
  • High-SPF sunscreen: It will prevent your shoulders, back, and face from ending up sunburned by the end of the day.
  • A bottle of water: It is very important to stay hydrated during the hike, especially considering that there are no shops nearby.
  • A wide-brimmed hat or cap: It will provide the shade and coolness we need during the climb.
  • Small backpack: To carry everything you need while keeping your hands free and ready for any situation.

Above all, do not forget to enjoy this experience, because most likely, when you finish the climb and finally stand at the top of the mountain, you will feel a mix of joy, euphoria, satisfaction, and delight that 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 beyond the visit to the citadel that allows us to live an unforgettable experience: the ascent to the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain.

View from the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain. Source: CuscoPeru.com
Huayna Picchu Mountain is the one that appears in the background of most photos of Machu Picchu.

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