It means young mountain and is the smallest mountain. On the typical photos you can see the Huayna Picchu mountain which has a very steep and narrow path, which includes several sections with steps, stairs carved into the living rock and cables. The ascent varies between 1 hour to 1 hour and a half walking from the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This will depend on the physical condition of each person, it has a height of 2700 m and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is at a height of 2400 m per which is ascended in 300 m.
At the top of Huayna Picchu there are some minor constructions, including a doorway and a large carved stone as a throne known as the “Inca Chair.” But the most interesting thing here is the view you have of the archaeological remains of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba River deep in the Canyon, whose turbulent waters can be heard thundering even in such a high place.
The Salkantay snow-capped mountain is visible from here, as is the curious alignment that exists between Huayna Picchu, the summit of Machu Picchu and the aforementioned snow-capped mountain, which according to Johan Reinhard is one of the main reasons why Machu Picchu was important in the times of the Inca Pachacutec (1438-1572).
These are several caves, some of which have been lined (on a larger scale than in the Mausoleum of Machu Picchu) with blocks of fine stonework that have been carved to fit precisely with the irregular contours of the large rock outcrops that surround them. They serve as a roof. The walls, clearly ornamental in nature, include false doorways and trapezoid niches with double and triple jambs.
It is believed that it could have had funerary uses and that all the tombs were looted at some point in the history of the region.
Here at the top we will also find an enclosure known as the “Temple of the Moon” which has become popular among archaeologists and tourist guides. In any case, it reveals the common interest in comparing it in quality with other Inca buildings, such as the “temple of the sun” of Machu Picchu.
For those who wish to reach the top of this mountain, they must reserve an entrance ticket at least 2 months in advance since local authorities only allow the daily ascent of a maximum of 200 people divided into four shifts of 50 people each.
Below, we leave you the enabled schedules
Time Table |
7:00 to 8:00 hrs | 8:00 to 9:00 hrs | 9:00 to 10:00 hrs | 10:00 to 11:00hrs |
availability |
50 |
50 | 50 |
50 |
This schedule must be strictly followed, otherwise you will lose your right to enter, and there will be no option for complaints.
We recommend spending the night before in Machupicchu so that you can rest, visit the citadel of Machu Picchu and later climb the Huayna Picchu mountain.
Machu Picchu in Quechua means ancient mountain, The largest mountain is Machu Picchu, which gives its name to the valley and the citadel (In typical photos, the Machu Picchu mountain is not seen, only Huayna Picchu, with Machu Picchu behind the photo).
The path to Machu Picchu mountain is less steep and has stairs, so it is less dangerous, but this mountain is higher than Huayna Picchu with a height of 3200 m, with a difference of 800 m above the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
It is part of the eastern foothills of the Nevado de Salcantay, in Cuzco, Peru. It is part of a large orographic formation known as the Vilcabamba Batholith, in the Central Mountain Range of the Peruvian Andes.
Unlike the neighboring mountain Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu is much larger in both vertical and horizontal size and lacks archaeological areas in its upper area. On the contrary, it is the mountain where the archaeological site is located and, as a whole, the historic sanctuary of the same name, with more diversity of fauna and flora, highlighting the presence of birds
Below we leave you the entry times to the Machu Picchu mountain
Time Table |
7:00 to 8:00 hrs | 8:00 to 9:00 hrs |
availability | 50 |
50 |
This schedule must be strictly followed, otherwise you will lose your right to enter, and there will be no option for complaints.
We recommend spending the night before in Machu Picchu town so that you can rest and visit the citadel of Machu Picchu calmly and then climb the mountain.
Deciding between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and fitness level. Huayna Picchu offers a thrilling and challenging hike, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore the Temple of the Moon. However, it requires careful planning and booking in advance due to limited availability.
On the other hand, Machu Picchu Mountain provides a more leisurely ascent with equally stunning views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape. It is a great option for those looking for a less strenuous hike but still want to experience the beauty and grandeur of this ancient citadel.
Whichever mountain you choose, be prepared for a memorable adventure that will transport you back in time to the height of the Inca civilization.
The Andes Mountains hold a treasure trove of wonders, and both HuaynaPicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain offer unique perspectives on this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your camera, and embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Machu Picchu.