Huayna Picchu: This is the route to its top

Huayna Picchu is one of the most exclusive destinations to visit in Machu Picchu. It is possible to enter only with the entrance that bears the same name. The exclusivity of this entrance is due to the tight availability and also only the two schedules it has. On the other hand, the Huayna Picchu mountain has its own attractions. It is one of the best options to get to know in detail part of the famous Inca Trails or Qhapac Ñam. In addition, it will be possible to appreciate the splendor of the architectural capacity that the Incas had to build on the cliffs of the mountain. The experience of this walk, for many, is the ideal or perfect complement after visiting the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. In this article we will learn more about Huayna Picchu, everything that the entrance includes and also the benefits of the tour with our guides.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu Mountain is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Machu Picchu. That is why it has its own ticket, and it also has limited capacity. This attraction is located at the top of the mountain, but during the tour you can see different attractions. There, the presence of the stairs and some terraces or platforms that are a challenge to modern architecture stands out. Likewise, it allows you to see beautiful constructions accompanied by panoramic views that make it possible to appreciate the entire geography of the place.

During the ascent to the Huayna Picchu mountain, you can also find the presence of the flora and fauna of the place. Although to find some of the most representative and beautiful birds you have to be very attentive and have some luck. On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that the tour will begin after reaching the Sacred Rock of Machu Picchu, a Huaca or Huanca of great religious value. Consequently, it is mentioned that the route to Huayna Picchu was select and of great spiritual value. As you can see, know and feel today. Next, let’s learn more about this mountain.

Altitude

• Machu Picchu is located 2,430 meters above sea level.
• The altitude of Machu Picchu in feet is 7,972.
• The Huayna Picchu mountain has an altitude of 2,693 meters above sea level .
• The altitude in feet of Huayna Picchu is 8835 feet.
• This mountain is part of the mountain range that is integrated into the Salkantay snow-capped mountain.

About the geography of Huayna Picchu

• It is located in the high jungle. From the top you can see the change in geography.
• It is possible to appreciate the geography of the high jungle that covers the entire mountain in green.
• Likewise, you can see the mountains without vegetation in the distance, typical of higher areas.
• It is unlikely to have problems related to altitude sickness.
• It is located in the Central Mountain Range of the Peruvian Andes.
• It is also part of the Vilcabamba Batholith.
• The entire Machu Picchu sector has a semi-tropical climate. There is a high probability of rain.

Is the route complicated?

• The hike to the top of Huayna Picchu mountain is quite easy to do.
• You follow a dirt path and sections of stairs.
• Seeing a large number of steps and platforms will be a sign that you are close to the Huayna Picchu site.
• The walking time is approximately 2 hours.
• The section with the most steps is at Huayna Picchu. The famous “Staircase of Death” is also located there .
• We emphasize that the walk is completely safe.

Tour during the rainy season to Huayna Picchu

• It is possible to visit Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu throughout the year. In this sense, it is possible to make the trip during the rainy season.
• The rainy season begins with greater intensity from the end of December and lasts until March.
• For hiking during the rainy season, you will only need a waterproof poncho. If possible, wear waterproof shoes as well.
• The walk is safe, but you always have to be careful, especially in places where rainwater accumulates.
• You should also avoid walking near the edge of the road and be careful not to slip on wet stones.

Dry season tour to Huayna Picchu

• This route is the most recommended to avoid some details such as delays or similar during the journey.
• The visit will require the use of sunscreen and mosquito repellent, although this will be necessary at any time of the year.
• The hike is safe, but you will also need to take the route with care.
• Fog is unlikely, so you will be able to appreciate the entire landscape, compared to the route during the rainy season.
• You will need to bring a raincoat. Light showers sometimes occur.

What is the entrance to Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu like?

The entrance to Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu, as we have already mentioned, is one of the most requested entrances. This means that reservations are made well in advance. The minimum time to make a reservation is 3 months. Only in this way will you be able to arrange the service in the best possible way.

The entrance to Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu allows you to take a previous tour of the Inca citadel. This tour takes you through the lower part of the complex, so you can see the wide esplanades and some temples. Among the temples to visit, the Temple of the Condor stands out . Likewise, it will be possible to have beautiful views of the upper area, where the main temples are located.

This entrance has only 2 entry times and a time availability of 200 tickets. That is, a total of 400 tickets, of which, 300 can be reserved online or virtually . The remaining tickets (100) can be purchased in person, either in the city of Cusco or in Machu Picchu Pueblo or Aguas Calientes.

• What to bring?

  To visit Machu Picchu, you almost always need different personal items and other things. This is because Machu Picchu and consequently Huayna Picchu is located in what is known as the high jungle. This gives it a semi-tropical climate with a temperature that averages between 14° and 20° Celsius. In this sense, you should prioritize most of the items that we will detail below.

  • Always carry your ID or Passport to validate all reservations you have made.
  • A mosquito repellent, even if it is carried during the tour. It is advisable to apply it from time to time.
  • Sunscreen. If you feel like you are sweating a lot, it is recommended that you bring some with you so that you can reuse it if necessary.
  • Hats or caps, to avoid burns or similar.
  • Cash, to buy drinks or snacks if necessary.
  • A raincoat. It can rain even in the dry season.
  • A photographic camera.
  • If possible, bring hiking shoes. If not, make sure you bring sturdy and comfortable shoes.
  • Do not forget your entrance ticket and other reservations such as train or bus tickets .
  • It is also advisable to contact the guide before your trip to ensure the service.

• Is it dangerous to take this route?

  As for the tour of Machu Picchu, it is completely safe and easy to do. Follow part of the route on easily accessible trails and continue without much effort to the Sacred Rock. From that point, the climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu begins.

  In terms of safety, the route can be completed without any major complications. The condition of the paths and steps is good. In some difficult sections such as climbs or narrow steps, you can find ropes as railings.

  During the tour of the buildings at the top of Huayna Picchu, you may encounter some rather complicated staircases. Likewise, you may find some areas where you must enter through tunnels and approach rocks; all of these activities are quite safe. In any case, you need to take the tour carefully and, if possible, follow the instructions of the guides and park rangers.

• The best time to hike to Huayna Picchu

  As we mentioned above, there are two times to enter Machu Picchu with the Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu ticket. In this sense, you can find different experiences when making the tour. These differences are not very big . But they can influence the way you learn more about Machu Picchu.

  For example, if you go during the first time, you may encounter fog, especially during the rainy season. However, the positive factor is that you can climb in a much milder and cooler climate. While during the second time, the opposite will occur.

  Choosing the best time can be difficult and quite subjective. Tourists should take into account the duration of the tour and the details mentioned above so that they can return to Cusco. The following table will help us better understand the arrangement of both schedules and the activities that can be followed.

f

The tour with the guides

Professional tour guides in Machu Picchu offer two alternatives for touring Machu Picchu. They will be in charge of explaining in the best way all the attractions, buildings and enclosures of the Inca citadel. They will also help you have a smoother tour without missing any detail. They will also guide you through the main viewpoints and will especially give you instructions for a completely safe tour.

Below we summarize the guide and the two options we offer in our guide services.

• Guided tour option 1

  The first and most popular option is to only take the tour with a guide through the citadel of Machu Picchu. That is, it will not include the ascent to Huayna Picchu. In some cases, you can also choose a private service so that the guide can accompany you from Cusco.

• Guided tour option 2

  The second option is rarely used, but offers a better experience of the tour. The guides will accompany you throughout your tour of the main attractions of Machu Picchu. Likewise, you can go with the guide to the ascent and guided tour of the buildings at the top of Huayna Picchu.