Huayna Picchu (or Wayna Picchu) is one of the best experiences you can have in Machu Picchu. The hike to this summit is difficult but well worth it. It includes a visit to the mysterious Inca Temple of the Moon. At the top, you can appreciate the beautiful landscapes of the natural surroundings. The entrance ticket includes a tour of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

• Is Huayna Picchu the same as Machu Picchu?
• What are the trails on Huayna Picchu mountain like?
• Tickets to enter Huayna Picchu mountain
• Huayna Picchu: Which group to choose?
• What is the age to climb the mountain?
• Can I climb the mountain if I’m afraid of heights?
• What to bring to Huayna Picchu?
• When is the best time to climb Huayna Picchu?
• Recommendations for climbing the mountain
• Frequently Asked Questions

Climbing Huayna Picchu is a unique experience

Huayna Picchu is the ultimate adventure within Machu Picchu. The hike can be difficult, but it’s breathtaking. You can appreciate beautiful landscapes at the summit and the entrance to the famous Temple of the Moon. Remember that the entrance to the summit is Machu Picchu with the Temple of the Moon or the Great Cave (Route 3C). The trails are close to precipices, but they are very safe.

Is Huayna Picchu the same as Machu Picchu?

• Look through any of the millions of classic photos of Machu Picchu. Notice the mountain behind the Inca city? That’s Huayna Picchu.
• This summit is one of two hiking trails in the Inca city (the other is Machu Picchu Mountain).
• Huayna Picchu is a Quechua word meaning “young mountain.” It is located at 2,720 meters above sea level (8,923 ft).
• From its summit you can enjoy incredible aerial views of the Inca city and the lush mountain environment that surrounds it.
• On the mountain, you can see the Temple of the Moon, one of the most amazing structures within Huayna Picchu. Your entry ticket is Machu Picchu with the Temple of the Moon or the Great Cave (Route 3C).

What are the trails on Huayna Picchu mountain like?

• The Wayna Picchu hike is considered one of the most amazing short hikes on the planet.
• It all begins in the Inca city of Machu Picchu. You walk part of the route until you reach the entrance gate to Huayna Picchu (near the so-called “Sacred Rock”).
• The route consists of a 2-kilometer climb up stone steps built by the Incas.
• The trail is built on the side of the mountain. There are stretches where you cross cliffs hundreds of meters high.
• During the hike, you must climb the famous “Stairs of Death.” This section is difficult, requiring maximum effort from the visitor (no one has ever died on this route).

The stairs of Huana Picchu mountain can produce intense sensations of vertigo

Tickets to enter Huayna Picchu mountain

• The entrance tickets to Wayna Picchu Mountain are the “Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A)” tickets. As the name suggests, the ticket includes admission to the Inca city of Machu Picchu.
• These tickets must be purchased online approximately three months in advance. Otherwise, you may not find availability for your preferred date.
• Tickets can be purchased online through the Peruvian Ministry of Culture website. You can also purchase tickets through the website of an authorized travel agency.

Huayna Picchu: Which group to choose?

• Every day 350 tourists enter Waynapicchu Mountain, divided into 2 groups or entry times.
• Each tourist may stay a maximum of 6 hours from the moment they enter Machu Picchu.

Group 1

• Entrance to Machu Picchu – Starting at 7 a.m.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu – Between 8 and 9 in the morning.

Group 2

• Entrance to Machu Picchu – Starting at 9 a.m.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu – Between 10 and 11 in the morning.

What is the age to climb the mountain?

• Entrance to Waynapicchu Mountain is only permitted for people over 12 years of age .
• Those under 18 years of age receive a special discount on the purchase of admission tickets.
• Seniors can visit Huayna Picchu with their doctor’s approval. It’s recommended that you be in good physical shape for the visit.

Can I climb the mountain if I’m afraid of heights?

• Being afraid of heights is not recommended before taking the tour of Waynapicchu Mountain .
• There are some complicated sections that require serenity to overcome.
• However, climbing Huayna Picchu is not dangerous. Visitors should remain calm and enjoy every step of the journey.

At the top of Huayna Picchu mountain you can also see terraces and Inca constructions

What to bring to Huayna Picchu?

• Hiking shoes – These will give you greater security when walking on the rocky mountain trails.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent – The sun in Machu Picchu can be damaging to your skin. Plus, there are often pesky insects on the mountain.
• Rain poncho – Heavy rains often occur from November to April. Umbrellas are not permitted in Machu Picchu.
• Water canteen – Because disposable bottles are not accepted at Machu Picchu, you must carry water in a canteen.
• Purse or backpack – Everything you need for the tour should be in a purse or backpack. This way, tourists will have their hands free during the trip.
• Camera – The summit of Wayna Picchu offers some of the best views of Machu Picchu, so a camera is essential.

When is the best time to climb Huayna Picchu?

• The best time to hike Huayna Picchu is during the dry season (April through October). During these months, there’s little chance of rain, but there’s also a higher number of tourists visiting the Inca city.
• On the other hand, during the rainy season (November to March) there is a greater chance of rain, but fewer tourists visit the Inca city.

Recommendations for climbing the mountain

• Buy your Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A) ticket online 3 or 4 months in advance.
• Don’t risk your life by taking selfies in dangerous places like ravines or rocks on the edge of cliffs.
• Do not cross security cordons or enter unauthorized areas on the mountain.
• Before going to Waynapicchu Mountain, acclimatize for a day or two in the city of Cusco.
• Take your time traversing the famous ‘Stairs of Death’ of Huayna Picchu . This stretch requires concentration and physical effort.
• Get in shape before heading to Mount Wayna Picchu. It’s recommended to go hiking or running a few weeks before your trip.

Recommendations for climbing the mountain

• 1) Is Huayna Picchu mountain the same as Machu Picchu?

  No, Huayna Picchu is not the same as Machu Picchu. While Machu Picchu is the Inca citadel, Huayna Picchu is the immense mountain that appears in the background in classic photographs.

• 2) What are the trails on Huayna Picchu mountain like?

  The trails to Huayna Picchu are narrow and steep. The climb takes approximately 2 kilometers along several cliffs.

• 3) What is the ticket to enter Huayna Picchu mountain?

  The ticket is “Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A)”, which includes entry to the citadel via circuit 3 and the ascent to the mountain.

• 4) Which group should I choose to climb Huayna Picchu?

  There are two groups entering the mountain. Group 1 enters Machu Picchu from 7 a.m. and Huayna Picchu between 8 and 9 a.m., while group 2 enters the citadel from 9 a.m. and the mountain between 10 and 11 a.m. The choice depends on your itinerary, although many prefer the first group due to the cooler weather.

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

  Access is only permitted to persons over 12 years of age.

• 6) Is it advisable to climb if you are afraid of heights?

  Those who suffer from vertigo or fear of heights should exercise extreme caution. Although the route isn’t dangerous if followed correctly, it requires confidence and emotional stability to complete it.

• 7) What is the best time to climb Huayna Picchu?

  The dry season (April to October) is ideal for mountain climbing because it offers clear skies and a lower risk of rain.

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

  The average ascent time takes 1 hour and 30 minutes and the descent 1 hour.

• 9) What is the difference between Huayna Picchu mountain and Machu Picchu mountain?

  The difference is that Huayna Picchu has a steeper and shorter path, while the trail to Machu Picchu Mountain has wider and less steep paths.

• 10) Is entry to Huayna Picchu allowed all year round?

  Yes, the mountain remains open all year round, along with the Machu Picchu ticket with Huayna Picchu (Route 3A).

Advice from people who have been there

Huayna Picchu

By: Janina G.

“The best and most difficult trek of my life“

“I have hiked several mountains in my life, but Huayna Picchu took my breath away (literally) and it wasn't the altitude. When I saw the stairs I thought I could not, or that they would have to pick me up later from the bottom of the river. But after taking courage, thanks in part to the (mocking) encouragement of my group of friends, I decided that I could, and I could. And I have to say that it is the best experience I have ever had in my life and one that I will be able to tell my grandchildren about.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, June 20, 2025