Huayna Picchu
Mountain · Machu Picchu, Cusco

Huayna Picchu

Photo: Allard Schmidt (The Netherlands) · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Huayna Picchu is the steep peak behind Machu Picchu that appears in most classic photos of the site. A narrow stone trail with steep steps climbs to Inca terraces and a small temple near the top. The view down onto the citadel is the reward for a demanding hike.

On day 4 of Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 days

Good to know

Time to spend
2–3 hours round trip
Tickets
Limited daily permits, sold with a Machu Picchu Circuit 3 ticket; book far ahead
Best time
Dry season (May–October); morning slots for clearer views
Getting there
Trailhead is inside Machu Picchu, reached along the Circuit 3 route

Itineraries with Huayna Picchu

Day 4 of Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 days

Machu Picchu

How Huayna Picchu fits into a day.
  1. 6:00Bus up to Machu PicchuAguas Calientes
  2. 7:00Machu Picchu guided visitMachu Picchu
  3. 10:30Huayna Picchu climb (separate ticket)Machu Picchu
  4. 16:00Train back to CuscoAguas Calientes
See all 5 days
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Huayna Picchu questions

How do I get a Huayna Picchu ticket?

It is sold as a combined ticket with Machu Picchu on the Circuit 3 route that includes the mountain. Daily numbers are small, so book months ahead in high season.

Is the Huayna Picchu hike dangerous?

It is steep and narrow with drops in places, but there are ropes and handholds on the hardest parts. It is not a good fit if you have a fear of heights.

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