Huayna Picchu is the mountain that crowns the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Climbing its steep stone stairs is an experience that few visitors have lived. Its access is difficult due to the high demand and the low capacity of the place (350 people divided into two shifts per day). If you have booked your ticket in advance, we recommend these tips to make your experience in the “Young Mountain” unforgettable.

• Tips before climbing Huayna Picchu
• Tips during the ascent and descent to Huayna Picchu
• Tips after climbing Huayna Picchu
• General tips for Huayna Picchu mountain
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tourist at the top of Huayna Picchu Mountain

From when to book the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket (Route 3A)?
Before starting any kind of planning to make the trip to Machu Picchu and make the ascent to Huayna Picchu, you must make the reservation of the entrance ticket. You will only be able to access this site with the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A) ticket. The time to make the reservation of this ticket is preferably 3 to 4 months in advance. This is the only way to book the entrance ticket. We must also keep in mind that there are only 350 tickets available.

Tips before climbing Huayna Picchu

• The basic thing to do before deciding to visit the Waynapicchu is to purchase the entrance tickets in advance. Ideally, you should purchase tickets at least three months before your trip to Cusco. If you can do it before, much better.
• You have to choose between the two shifts allowed for the ‘Huayna’. Group 1 (entrance is from 8:00 to 9:00 in the morning), allows you to climb the mountain with the first rays of dawn. The view at the top is unforgettable. Group 2 (entrance 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.) allows you to climb in a clearer environment. It is ideal for a good photo.
• It is important to keep in mind that the entrance hours to Machu Picchu start at 7:00 am and the second group at 9:00 am.
• Only people over 12 years old are allowed to complete this trek and climb Huayna Picchu. An important tip is to prepare yourself physically some time before the climb. Intense training is not necessary. Going for a run is enough.
• The ascent and descent will take you an average of two to three hours depending on your physical condition. It is advisable to acclimatize to the city of Cuscoa at least one or two days before. Huayna Picchu is located at 2720 meters above sea level.
• You can choose to go up by bus or on foot to the entrance. The first option is the most recommended. You do not want to arrive without energy before the climb up the steep Waynapicchu mountain.
• It is advisable to arrive early at the entrance. If you are going to climb the mountain in the first group (7:00 to 7:45 a.m.) you will have to get up very early. If you are going to climb in the second group (9:00 to 9:45 a.m.) it is advisable to do the tour of the Inca Citadel first before starting the stairway. You will only be able to stay at the site until 2:00 p.m.
• If you suffer from vertigo, it is best to overcome your fear before climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain. The descent can be a bit scary.
• Carry only the necessary clothing and items such as light clothing, a plastic poncho (in case of rain), an energy bar or snack, a canteen with water, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, a hat or cap and a simple backpack or bag to store everything. For climbing you need to have both hands free due to the difficulty of some sections.
• It is not allowed to carry a selfie stick or any other object (tripod, stands, extensions) that impedes free circulation. Neither alcoholic beverages, metal or hard-tipped sticks. You can only do it with rubber-tipped sticks.

View of the Hiram Bingham Highway from the path to Huayna Picchu

To enter Huayna Picchu, you must first make the entrance to Machu Picchu, the times we mentioned, are precisely those indicated above. On the other hand, the entrance to Huayna Picchu is one hour later, that is to say, for the first schedule you must be present at 8:00 in the morning at the control point. Similarly in the second schedule at 10:00 hours. When you arrive at the checkpoint, you will have to show again the entrance ticket, identity document and also register in the visitors’ book.

Tips during the ascent and descent to Huayna Picchu

• Climb at the pace you consider necessary; do not rush.
• You will come across a narrow cave on the way. This is not dangerous. It is just a moment in the dark.
• Do not risk your life by taking an unmarked route or getting unnecessarily close to the edge of the cliff. The few accidents that have occurred were committed by visitors who did not follow the signs. During the hike you will find people already descending and others also making the hike. Getting lost is impossible. However, make the ascent with due care.
• The descent is much less strenuous. You have to be very careful not to slip (especially in the rainy season).
• During the tour you will find two detours. The first one is to Huchuy Picchu and the second to the Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern. Both destinations have their own individual entrance tickets. Likewise, both will only be valid during the official high season.

Tourists climbing the steps of Huayna Picchu Mountain

Unforeseen incidents in Waynapicchu are very rare. These are due to the disobedience of security measures. The danger is more ‘myth’ than reality. That’s why it’s so important to follow the rules to have the best adventure at the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the incredible Huayna Picchu mountain.

Tips after climbing Huayna Picchu

• Check in when leaving the ‘Huayna’. This will help the guards to verify if any visitor is still on the mountain and help you in case of an emergency.
• If you went up with group 1, you can still visit Machu Picchu until 1:00 pm. Try to rest a little and continue discovering the Inca Citadel.
• If you went up with group 2, you can tour the Wonder of the World until 2:00 pm. Another alternative is to do it very early, before climbing Waynapicchu.
• If you do not feel in good health, there is a health clinic near the entrance to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.

Huayna Picchu is the preferred destination for tourists visiting the Inca Citadel. Only 350 people are allowed to enter daily. These are divided into two groups of 175 each. Due to the high demand for entrance tickets (especially in high season), it is necessary to reserve a ticket months in advance. The tour is considered among the five best short hikes on the planet, the experience is unique!

Photograph of a traveler at the top of Huayna Picchu

General tips for Huayna Picchu mountain

• The ascent to Huayna Picchu mountain covers a distance of approximately 2 kilometers.
• The elevation gain will be approximately 300 meters, compared to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• To hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain we will need the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket (Route 3A).
• The peak season for Machu Picchu, when tickets for the Temple of the Moon or Huchuy Picchu Mountain are available, runs from June 19 to November 2.
• During the rainy season (November to March) we will encounter a higher probability of precipitation on the hike to Huayna Picchu, but there are usually fewer visitors.
• During the dry season (April to October), the route will be easier in hot weather, but there will be more visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Why is Huayna Picchu mountain so famous?

  Huayna Picchu is so amazing because it offers spectacular views and is considered one of the most impressive short hikes in the world.

• 2) How can I get tickets to Huayna Picchu?

  Tickets must be purchased months in advance due to high demand. These are sold as a package that includes admission to Machu Picchu on Circuit 3 and access to Huayna Picchu (Route 3A).

• 3) What are the entry times to Huayna Picchu?

  There are two shifts for entering Huayna Picchu mountain:

  • Group 1: From 7:00 to 8:00 am
  • Group 2: From 9:00 to 10:00 am

• 4) Is it difficult to climb Huayna Picchu mountain?

  The difficulty is moderate to high due to the steep paths and altitude. However, with basic physical preparation, the climb is manageable.

• 5) How long does it take to go up and down Huayna Picchu mountain?

  The entire hike takes between two and three hours, depending on each person’s pace. This includes the time spent climbing, staying at the summit, and descending.

• 6) What is the best time to visit Huayna Picchu?

  The dry season (April to October) is ideal for its favorable climate, although visitor numbers are higher. During the rainy season (November to March), rainfall is more frequent, but visitor numbers are lower.

• 7) What ticket do I need to climb Huayna Picchu?

  To access this mountain, you must purchase the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket, which corresponds to Route 3A.

• 8) Can I visit other areas like the Temple of the Moon or Huchuy Picchu?

  Yes, but they require separate tickets. Access to the Temple of the Moon and Huchuy Picchu is only available during peak season (June 19 to November 2).

• 9) Can I take the tour with children?

  Only people over 12 years of age are allowed entry. This is due to the physical demands of the trail and the safety of visitors.

• 10) Is it possible to do the Machu Picchu tour first and then climb Huayna Picchu?

  Yes, especially if you’re in the second group (10:00 to 11:00 am). You can tour part of Circuit 3 of the Inca citadel before heading toward the entrance to Huayna Picchu.

Advice from people who have been there

Huayna Picchu

By: Victor H.

“Exhausting!“

“I don't want to be rude but there are many comments that scare tourists. I have seen people of all ages and no signs of being great athletes who made the climb. It is simply exhausting but it is not death. It is tiring but worth it. Exhaustion and altitude affects everyone equally. If you can do it do not hesitate, do not be discouraged. For the descent ask the guide at the top how to pass through the Temple of the Moon.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, June 16, 2025