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The famous Huayna Picchu Mountain which translated from Quechua means Young Mountain, is located at 2,667m/8,750ft above sea level and is part of the Andean foothills bordering the Amazon. Huayna Picchu is a very popular hike from the Machu Picchu Citadel. If you wish to add this hike on your tour or trek, its imperative to book early.
There are a number of reasons why people choose to hike this mountain. This 4km/2.4mile round trip hike takes you through meandering pathways among the lush vegetation that´s part of the Amazon Rainforest. Once you pass the winding path, you come upon the greatly feared and respected Stairs of Death that are steep and narrow. However, this trail is not dangerous, because along the way you will find rails and ropes on the side to hold on to. After you concur this steep climb, the views that await you at the top are unparalleled and will leave you in awe. Feast your eyes on spectacular panoramic views of the river that snakes its way through the valley, unobstructed views of the mountain tops and a slew of Inca ruins scattered on the mountain sides.
Also, awaiting you is an optional hike on the other side of the mountain to the Temple of the Moon. Temple of the Moon adds an extra hour to your overall hiking time, but is well worth it. It was build inside a natural cave and was possibly used for rituals , sacrifices or worshipping the moon. Upon your return to the top of Huayna Picchu, enjoy time exploring the small terraces and some buildings that were a part of an astronomical observatory. Be sure to not spend too much time at the top, so you can make space for other travelers looking to explore this amazing vintage point.
PLEASE NOTE:
***The climb to Huayna Picchu is steep and can be slippery when wet. Also, the hike comprises of stone steps and therefore having hiking boots with good tread, that fit well and are worn out is essential.
***For the reasons listed above, this hike might not be for everybody, its important to evaluate your ability to climb this mountain before booking. It is especially tricky during rainy season.
***This optional extra mountain hike within the Machu Picchu complex does not include a guide. The climb is done on your own, however there are personnel that are stationed within the trail for security and safety reasons. If you require a guide, please request in advance. There is an extra charge for this service.
***You must always respect the scheduled entrance times between 7 to 8am, 8am to 9am, 9am to 10am or 10am to 11am. If you arrive 5 minutes late you will not be allowed to enter!
Yes! Its limited to 200 hikers a day, so you will need to plan early to book the extra hike. Especially for Huayna Picchu, you should book at least 2 to 3 months in advance. We will purchase the permit for you with your trek if entrance tickets are available.
***This is the time you start the hike. It takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the top of Huayna Picchu, take some photos and 45 minutes down.
The price for Huayna Picchu is an extra cost: US$75 per person. You must purchase a Circuit 3 Huayna Picchu Ticket. This is not part of your Machu Picchu tour, this will be an extra entrance ticket which is normally part of the Machu Picchu tour.
Relevant question to ask yourself in this situation is: Is Huayna Picchu mt worth it? Simple answer, YES! Here are the reasons why.
Terraces with flying stairs and houses.
Almost getting to the top, you will see flying stairs, placed with geometric precision, embedded in the walls of the terraces, allowing access between the different levels. The stair treads are high and far apart, needing a bit of a jump between them. Also, you will find Incan houses along the way. Some of them are very well restored.
Tunnels in the Huayna Picchu Mountain
Almost getting to the summit of Huayna Picchu, you will meet with a narrow tunnel that you must navigate through. To cross the tunnel, you need to crawl on your hands and knees. The idea to construct this tunnel was something of a “Choke point” for any invading forces trying to make their way up to the top of the mountain
The Moon Temple
Most people hike to Huayna Picchu to only see Machu Picchu from above and from a different angle. But if you have more time and your train Schedule is late, we recommend you hike the moon temple. It usually takes 4 hours to visit the Moon temple and the view of Machu Picchu from above. This temple is a well-carved lithic structure located inside a natural cave (the great cave).
Special fauna
You will see some Viscachas sitting on top of the rocks, many types of jungle birds, Lizards, and hummingbirds. If you are lucky, you can see cock of the rock and Spectacle bears.
