There are two quintessential adventure alternatives at the Wonder of the World: the first is the stunning 4-day hiking route to Machu Picchu known as the Inca Trail. The second is the ascent to the summit of Huayna Picchu mountain, considered one of the most incredible short hikes in the world. Many tourists, after experiencing the Inca Trail, wish to feel the adrenaline of Huayna Picchu. Is this possible? Below is a guide to experience the two most incredible alternatives of the Inca Citadel.

• The Inca Trail
• Huayna Picchu
• Climbing Huayna Picchu after the Inca Trail?
• Recommendations
• Other adventure alternatives
• Frequently Asked Questions

View of the Machu Picchu citadel – Inca Trail

To visit Huayna Picchu mountain after completing the Inca Trail hiking route, it is recommended to book the ticket in the second time slot, which allows entry to the route from 11 a.m. (entry to the Inca citadel at 10 a.m.).

The Inca Trail

• The Inca Trail is a four-day hiking route that ends on the final day at the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. Entry is through the Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
• The total hike is approximately 43 kilometers, following the ancient network of roads built by the Incas more than 600 years ago.
• The adventure begins in the village of Pisqacucho, a small settlement along the railway that leads to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
• During the journey, visitors pass exclusive archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, Runkuraka, and Phuyupatamarca. The highest point of the route is the Warmihuañusca pass, located at 4,200 meters above sea level.
• Nights are spent camping under the stars. It is a highly immersive adventure where contact with nature and history is constant.
• It is estimated that 25,000 tourists hike the Inca Trail each year. It is not possible to undertake this route independently, as it can only be done with an authorized tour agency. These measures are in place to protect visitor control and the conservation status of the route.
• The adventure includes the company of a professional guide, meals, camping accommodation, porters, and entry to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• To experience this adventure, it is necessary to book a spot up to 5 months in advance. The Inca Trail is considered one of the best hiking routes in the world.

Section of the Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu

Huayna Picchu

• Huayna Picchu mountain is the peak located north of the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, the one featured in the classic postcard photos of the site.
• The ascent to its summit is considered one of the most incredible short hikes in the world. It stands at 2,720 meters above sea level, nearly 300 meters above the Inca complex.
• Its Quechua name means ‘young mountain,’ in contrast to Machu Picchu (‘old mountain’).
• The entrance gate to Huayna Picchu is located within the Inca Citadel, along circuit 3 (Machu Picchu royalty route). The ascent follows ancient Inca trails built into the mountain.
• The climb is popular due to the adrenaline tourists experience while ascending the steep stairways, which run alongside cliffs. The entire route is highly scenic, and there are also Inca constructions along many sections of the path.
• From the summit of Huayna Picchu, visitors can appreciate the full splendor of the landscape surrounding the Wonder of the World: mountains, rivers, tropical forests, and Inca constructions.
• To access this route, you must book the Huayna Picchu mountain ticket (3A), which allows entry for only 400 people per day (350 online sales and 50 in-person in Aguas Calientes).

Panoramic view from the top of Huayna Picchu

Climb Huayna Picchu after the Inca Trail?

• Visitors who wish to climb the mountain after completing the Inca Trail must book the Huayna Picchu mountain ticket (route 3A) for the second time slot (entry to Machu Picchu at 10:00 AM and to the mountain at 11:00 AM).
• It is important to choose the second schedule because upon arriving at Machu Picchu, after following the Inca Trail route, you will need time to rest before walking again—this time toward Huayna Picchu, which also follows paths of the Qhapaq Ñan.
• To complete both the Inca Trail and the Huayna Picchu climb, proper planning is required. The first step is to make both reservations 4 to 5 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high tourist season (April to October).
• If you plan to visit during the low tourist season (October to March), you can make reservations 3 to 4 months in advance. Also note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance throughout February.
• Visitors entering Huayna Picchu during the second time slot can stay in the archaeological site until 3:00 PM. This allows time to explore the constructions of Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu, such as: the Temple of the Condor, the Temple of the Sun, the House of the Inca, the Sacred Rock, the Sacred Fountains, agricultural terraces, among others.
• If you no longer have the energy to continue walking through this Wonder of the World, another option is simply to enjoy the incredible views from the circuit’s terraces.

Tourists descending Huayna Picchu mountain

Recommendations

• Before starting the Inca Trail, it is recommended to acclimatize for one or two days in the city of Cusco. The route along ancient Inca paths reaches altitudes of up to 4,200 meters above sea level.
• The Inca Trail is open to people of all ages, while the Huayna Picchu mountain route is only for visitors over 12 years old.
• For any hiking adventure in Machu Picchu, it is recommended to bring sunscreen, water in a canteen, proper hiking footwear, mosquito repellent, light clothing for daytime, and snacks.
• You do not need to be an expert mountaineer to complete the Inca Trail and climb Huayna Picchu. The only requirement is the determination to reach the goal.
• The Inca Trail and Huayna Picchu have signage to ensure visitor safety. It is important to follow the signs and not attempt to find your own route.
• With Ticketmachupicchu, you can book the Inca Trail experience and the Huayna Picchu mountain ticket. Contact our advisors with any questions to enjoy this unforgettable adventure.

Other adventurous alternatives

• 2-day Inca Trail: An alternative for those who do not have four days to experience the classic Inca Trail adventure. This shorter version covers only 11 kilometers of hiking, lasting 2 days and 1 night.
• Salkantay Trek: An adventure alternative for those who could not secure a ticket for the Inca Trail. This route crosses the slopes of the imposing Salkantay snow-capped mountain at 6,710 meters above sea level and then descends via the Hydroelectric route to Machu Picchu. The experience lasts 5 days and 4 nights.
• Hike to Machu Picchu Mountain: An alternative for those who could not obtain a ticket to Huayna Picchu. It is a constantly ascending hiking route toward the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain, located within the Wonder of the World. The view from the summit is much wider than from the highest point of Huayna Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Is it possible to hike the Inca Trail and then climb Huayna Picchu on the same day?

  Yes, it is possible. However, those who arrive at Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail must also purchase the “Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A)” ticket.

• 2) How many people can enter Huayna Picchu per day?

  Access to Huayna Picchu mountain is limited to 400 people per day, divided into two groups with specific entry times.

• 3) Can the Inca Trail be done without a guide or independently?

  No, the Inca Trail can only be completed through an authorized agency that provides an official guide, porters, meals, and campsite accommodations. This measure helps preserve the natural and archaeological heritage of the route.

• 4) When is the Inca Trail closed?

  Throughout the entire month of February, the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance and conservation work.

• 5) What is the minimum age required to climb Huayna Picchu?

  Entry is allowed only for individuals over 12 years old due to the difficulty and risks of the route.

• 6) What is the difference between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?

  Both are mountains offering impressive panoramic views of the Inca Citadel, but they differ: Huayna Picchu is steeper and more adrenaline-filled, while Machu Picchu Mountain is longer and less steep.

• 7) How difficult is the climb to Huayna Picchu?

  The hike is short but demanding and requires good physical condition, as there are very steep sections with high steps and areas near cliffs.

• 8) What alternatives are there if I can’t get access to the Inca Trail?

  A very popular option is the 5-day, 4-night Salkantay Trek, which also reaches Machu Picchu. Another alternative is the 2-day Short Inca Trail.

• 9) Can I visit the Temple of the Moon along with Huayna Picchu mountain?

  Yes, but only if you have the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3C) ticket.

• 10) When is the best time to do these routes?

  The best time is from April to October, during the dry season. These months offer clear skies and safer trails.

Advice from people who have been there

Huayna Picchu

By: Victoria M.

“Beautiful experience!“

“After completing the Inca Trail and exploring part of the Machu Picchu Citadel, we enjoyed the ascent and descent of the mountain. The climb is tiring and the descent is thrilling. I recommend it to those who do not struggle with altitude. The view from the highest point of the mountain is magical and unmatched. It is worth the physical effort. With calmness, you can reach the top. I would climb it again.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, April 15, 2026