Huayna Picchu is the steep mountain that appears in the background of classic photos of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The access route is located within the archaeological site, to the north, right behind the Sacred Rock. The ticket required to access this route is the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket (3A). Below, discover the full map of this mountain, as well as the route you will follow to reach the summit and the section included by the Inca citadel.

• Recommendations before the tour
• The Huayna Picchu map
• The Mountain tour
• The ascent route to Huayna Picchu
• The return from Huayna Picchu
• Travel tips
• Frequently Asked Questions

Summit of Huayna Picchu mountain

Recommendations before the tour

• The first thing you will need to experience this adventure is to purchase the ticket for the Huayna Picchu Mountain route (3A)
• This ticket not only includes the hiking route to the mountain but also the tour of Circuit 3 (Royal Route) of Machu Picchu.
• Circuit 3 covers the lower sector of the Inca citadel, including some of the most important buildings and temples.
• You will have approximately one hour to explore this section before accessing the Huayna Picchu route. However, when descending, you can also explore it more quickly.
• Some of the most important constructions you will see in this circuit are: the Temple of the Condor, the Royal Tomb, the House of the Inca, the Sacred Rock, the Sacred Springs, agricultural terraces, and more.
• Remember to book your Huayna Picchu ticket at least 2 months in advance.

The Huayna Picchu Map

Circuit 3 (Machu Picchu Royal) – Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain Route

The Mountain Tour

• The total route covers 2 kilometers uphill, starting from the control point at the beginning of the hiking path.
• The route mainly consists of stone steps built into the mountain slopes.
• There are sections with steep steps, which can be challenging. For your safety, handrails are installed along the path, and it is highly recommended to walk calmly without rushing.
• The trails are surrounded by diverse vegetation typical of the cloud forest, helping to better mark the path to follow.
• In general, the route is easy. However, it is essential to follow the signs and not risk your safety by attempting close-up photographs near the cliffs.
• The average time for the round-trip tour is 3 hours, although it will depend on your pace and any breaks you take along the way.

Tour of Huayna Picchu

The Moon Temple and Huchuy Picchu mountain
During the route to Huayna Picchu Mountain, you will encounter two detours, leading to equally memorable destinations. First, the small Huchuy Picchu mountain, which involves a short hiking route. It is ideal for those who suffer from vertigo but still want to experience panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Second, the Moon Temple, a mysterious structure nestled in the diverse vegetation of Huayna Picchu. This route is also extensive, though you will enjoy more of the biodiversity surrounding the Inca citadel along the way. Both routes require a separate ticket, but they are only available during the high season (June 19 to November 2).

The Ascent Route to Huayna Picchu

• The ascent trails are full of steps, which, depending on the season of your visit, can be a little slippery. Therefore, always pay close attention to the path.
• Some trails are quite narrow, which may cause vertigo, although they are very safe. The same applies to the “stairs of death,” a steep section that can be overcome calmly and with patience.
• The steps are 35 cm high, 70 cm wide, and 15 cm deep. In certain sections, you can see exposed drops and ravines, but there are ropes for support and boundary marking along the path.
• There are also areas where Inca constructions are found along the route, ideal for resting and enjoying the scenery.
• Reaching the summit is the reward for the adventure, offering the most breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
• The landscapes you will find at the top are surrounded not only by the Inca citadel’s structures but also by the Andes mountain range in the background, the winding Urubamba River, and the entire natural and biodiverse setting that envelops the Wonder of the World.

Climbing Huayna Picchu mountain

The Return from Huayna Picchu

• The return path follows the same route as the ascent, but now in descent, making the journey much easier.
• It is only recommended to be careful in the narrow stair sections. Holding onto the handrails and going slowly is the best way to handle it.
• Appreciating the diverse flora of Machu Picchu is ideal during the return, where you can see a wide variety of orchids and endemic flowers from the tropical territory.
• Upon leaving the Huayna Picchu Mountain route, visitors will still have an hour to visit the constructions and temples of Machu Picchu’s Circuit 3.

Descending Huayna Picchu mountain

Travel Tips

• Remember to book your Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket (Route 3A) at least 2 months in advance, regardless of the season of your visit.
• Before entering the mountain, you must register at the Huayna Picchu control booth, and also upon returning from the route. This helps to maintain strict control and ensure the safety of every visitor ascending the mountain.
• If you visit Machu Picchu from April to October (dry season), you will find more stable trails on the way to the summit of Huayna Picchu. You will also need to make an earlier reservation, but the ideal weather and the views in full bloom will make it worth it.
• From November to March (rainy season), the paths will be wetter due to more frequent rain. However, the landscapes are much greener and there is a mysticism that surrounds Machu Picchu in the clouds. During these months, there are fewer visitors and tickets are easier to get.
• Remember to keep your hands free during your ascent. Bring a small backpack to carry everything you need.
• When traveling to Machu Picchu, always bring hiking shoes, a rain poncho, water bottles, snacks, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
• The mountain route is only available for visitors over 12 years old, so always be attentive on each section of the ascent.
• With Ticketmachupicchu, you can reserve your experience on Huayna Picchu Mountain. Check with our advisors for all the options available to experience this incredible adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) Why is Huayna Picchu Mountain so famous?

  Huayna Picchu is the mountain that appears in the background of the classic Machu Picchu photos. The ascent route is considered one of the best short hikes in the world, offering adrenaline-pumping sections while enjoying panoramic views of the entire citadel and the surrounding nature.

• 2) Does the ticket also include the Machu Picchu tour?

  Yes, the Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket also includes the tour of Circuit 3 (Royal Route) within Machu Picchu. This route passes through the lower sector of the Inca citadel, alongside some of the most important buildings and temples.

• 3) How far in advance should I book the ticket?

  It is ideal to book your Huayna Picchu ticket at least 2 months in advance because daily spots are limited, and it is one of the most requested routes at Machu Picchu.

• 4) What are the Huayna Picchu Mountain hours?

  Currently, there are two main groups to ascend Huayna Picchu: the first at 7:00 AM and the second at 10:00 AM. Each time slot has 175 tickets available per day.

• 5) How long does the entire hike take?

  The complete round trip usually takes around 3 hours on average, although it will depend on your pace, the breaks you take, and the flow of visitors. The total distance is approximately 2 kilometers.

• 6) Is the route very difficult?

  No, it is an accessible hike, but there are steep sections with many steps. We recommend ascending slowly, without rushing, and always following the signs and safety barriers.

• 7) Are there sections with very steep stairs?

  Yes, there is a section known as the “death stairs,” which is very steep. However, it is safe if you proceed calmly and use the ropes and handrails for support.

• 8) What will I see during Circuit 3 before ascending?

  Before the ascent, you can visit very important sites in Machu Picchu’s Circuit 3, such as the Temple of the Condor, the House of the Inca, the Sacred Rock, the Sacred Springs, agricultural terraces, and other important structures.

• 9) What should I bring for the hike?

  We suggest bringing hiking shoes, plenty of water, some snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain poncho. Also, it’s better to use a small backpack to keep your hands free during the hike.

• 10) What other places can I visit during this route?

  During the tour, you will find detours to the small Huchuy Picchu mountain, ideal for those who want a lighter hike, and to the mysterious Moon Temple, a route surrounded by vegetation. Both require a separate ticket and are only available during the high season (June 19 to November 2).

Advice from people who have been there

Machu Picchu

By: Illie O.

“The landscapes of Huayna Picchu Mountain“

“The views from the summit of the mountain are the most astonishing, with breathtaking landscapes full of nature. One of the most magical moments of my life.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, February 18, 2026