For adventure lovers, Machu Picchu also has something to offer. The climb to the top of Huayna Picchu Mountain is considered one of the most incredible short hikes on the planet. Every year, thousands of visitors dare to trek the ancient Inca trails on the edge of terrifying cliffs. But is Huayna Picchu Mountain really dangerous?

• The fearsome Huayna Picchu?
• Is it really dangerous?
• What is the route like?
  • This is the climb
  • This is the summit
  • This is the descent
• What are the stairs of death?
• How to buy the Huayna Picchu ticket?
• Tips for a safe visit to Huayna Picchu
• Frequently Asked Questions

Huayna Picchu can produce very intense sensations of vertigo

The fearsome Huayna Picchu?

• Huayna Picchu (2,720 meters above sea level) is the mountain located north of the Inca archaeological site.
• During the tour you will find the Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon of Huayna Picchu, a mysterious building in the middle of a cave, but which you can only visit with the Machu Picchu ticket with Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern (Route 3C).
• From the Inca Citadel you can see a steep summit that is difficult to climb, and indeed it is.
• Inside, the Incas created stone staircases with complicated inclinations.
• In some sections, these mountains border on terrifying cliffs. At the top, you can appreciate the full geographical beauty of the Wonder of the World like nowhere else.
• Despite everything, the adventure is recognized as one of the most incredible on the planet.
• Every year, more and more tourists are encouraged to experience the adrenaline rush of Wayna Picchu.

Is it really dangerous?

• The hike up Huayna Picchu is demanding and dizzying, but not really dangerous.
• In the most complicated sections near the edge of cliffs, there are safety ropes that help you cross them.
• In addition, there is qualified personnel available to assist tourists who need any kind of support and provide signage along certain sections of the trail.
• At the beginning of the trail, it is mandatory to register the personal information of each person entering and leaving the summit. This way, authorities ensure that everyone who enters leaves the site.
• Access is only permitted to tourists over 12 years of age.
• The adventure is not recommended for people who are afraid of heights or have heart problems.
• There is a variety of information on social media and tourism forums such as Facebook and Tripadvisor about the dangers of Mount Wayna Picchu.
• Most agree that the route is difficult and frightening, although not dangerous. If all recommendations and safety measures are followed, the danger is zero.
• However, there are cases of tourists who needlessly risk their lives by taking photos near the cliff or by searching for a path outside the permitted trails. In these cases, accidents can occur.

What is the route like?

This is the climb

• The route is difficult. It begins with a gentle climb along dirt roads. Then you ascend a series of stone steps built by the Incas centuries ago.
• The climb continues along more narrow stone steps. In some sections, the mountain’s rock face borders one side and a precipice several meters long on the other.
• The view is terrifying. However, if you overcome your fear of heights, it is possible to reach the top. The climb is estimated to take an hour, depending on the tourist’s physical condition.

This is the summit

• The summit of Wayna Picchu is the perfect reward for all your hard work. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the Inca citadel and the surrounding nature like nowhere else.
• At the top, there are rocks that can be slippery (especially if it rains), so it is recommended to avoid taking photos on these stones.
• The highest point of the mountain is 300 meters higher than the archaeological site. From there, you can also see the town of Aguas Calientes, the Vilcanota River, the Putucusi River, and even the Salkantay snow-capped mountain.
• It is believed that the proximity to this nature and mountains was the reason why Machu Picchu was built in that location.

This is the descent

• The descent is as arduous as the ascent. It begins on a different path than the ascent.
• On one section, there is a detour that leads to the Great Cavern or Temple of the Moon at Huayna Picchu. However, you can only enter if you also have the Machu Picchu + Temple of the Moon or Great Cavern ticket (Route 3C).
• The stone steps are also narrow and border precipices. They join the initial ascent at one point.
• It is estimated that descending from the top of Huayna Picchu takes 1 hour depending on your pace and the stops you take to see the beautiful landscapes.

Panoramic view from Huayna Picchu

What are the stairs of death?

• At the end of the ascent to Wayna Picchu, there is a section called “The Stairs of Death.” This nickname is exaggerated, as no one actually lost their life falling from these steps.
• These trails owe their name to the verticality and difficulty of their section. It’s the last obstacle before reaching the summit of Wayna Picchu.
• The feeling of vertigo and adrenaline on that part of the trail is one of the most extreme moments of the climb.

How to buy the Huayna Picchu ticket?

• The only way to ascend to the top of Waynapicchu is to book the Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A) ticket in advance.
• Only 350 people are allowed to access this adventure daily.
• The ticket also includes a tour of the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain is given in 2 groups:

• Group 1

  • To Machu Picchu: from 7 in the morning.
  • To Machu Picchu: from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

• Group 2

  • To Machu Picchu: from 9 in the morning.
  • To Machu Picchu: from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Either of the two Huayna Picchu groups allows you to stay a maximum of six hours from the time you enter the Machu Picchu citadel. However, if you want to visit the Temple of the Moon, you must also purchase the Machu Picchu with Temple of the Moon or Great Cave (Route 3C) ticket, although this is only available during peak season (June 19 to November 2).

Tips for a safe visit to Huayna Picchu

• Any experienced climber knows that mountains must be treated with respect. Precautions must be taken and lives must not be risked unnecessarily.
• The Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu (Route 3A) ticket allows you to enter circuit 3 of Machu Picchu, which is called the Royal Route, and visits the temples in the lower part of the citadel.
• If you suffer from vertigo or fear of heights, we recommend skipping Wayna Picchu. You can also get wonderful aerial views of Machu Picchu from the top of the Sun Gate (Intipunku) or from the top of Machu Picchu Mountain.
• If you want to choose the dates you want to climb Huayna Picchu, you must reserve your tickets up to three months in advance.
• Only one backpack weighing no more than 5 kilos is allowed. It’s recommended to bring only the essentials: water, a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a poncho in case of rain, snacks, and a camera.
• Climbing to the summit of Wayna Picchu is a challenge. You just have to do it at your own pace. Many older adults also dare to reach the top.

Fotos de Huayna Picchu

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) How difficult is it to climb Huayna Picchu mountain?

  The climb to Huayna Picchu is considered moderate to high difficulty. It requires good physical fitness and altitude tolerance.

• 2) Is the hike to Huayna Picchu mountain dangerous?

  It’s not really dangerous if you follow the recommendations and stay on the marked trail. There are safety ropes along the most difficult sections.

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

  The estimated ascent time is approximately one hour, depending on your pace, and the descent takes a similar amount of time. In total, it can take you between two and three hours to hike.

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

  The minimum age to climb Huayna Picchu is 12 years old, accompanied by a responsible adult or guardian.

• 5) What are the stairs of death?

  They are the final stretch of the ascent to Huayna Picchu, characterized by their steepness and proximity to the abyss. However, they are completely safe.

• 6) Is it necessary to have hiking experience to climb Huayna Picchu mountain?

  No extensive experience is required, but a minimum of physical and mental preparation is.

• 7) How many people can climb Huayna Picchu mountain per day?

  Only 350 people are allowed access to Huayna Picchu mountain daily, divided into two entry groups.

• 8) Can you climb Huayna Picchu mountain all year round?

  Yes, tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain are available year-round.

• 9) How steep are the stairs to Huayna Picchu mountain?

  During the climb up Huayna Picchu, there is a section with some steep stairs and small steps, which requires concentration and balance.

• 10) What safety measures are in place for climbing Huayna Picchu?

  On the climb to Huayna Picchu, there are ropes on dangerous sections, clear signs, and a mandatory entry and exit log. In addition, trained personnel are available in the area in case of emergency.

Advice from people who have been there

Huayna Picchu

By: Ana L.

“Determination“

“I booked my Huayna Picchu ticket in advance, although I was not in shape and I am not a hiker, so I was not sure if I was going to make it to the top, plus I am afraid of heights, but Huayna Picchu looks beautiful in the pictures of Machu Picchu, so I decided to give it a try. I admit it took me longer than the others but it was worth it.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, June 21, 2025