Huayna Picchu - Is It Really Worth it?
Huayna Picchu (Wayna Picchu) is the tall mountain in the background of the iconic Machu Picchu photos. It is a steep hike but a rewarding view at the top. It is called the Stairs of Death and listed one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. However, I didn’t think it was scary at all.
Sign at Huayna Picchu
The steps
To get to the entrance you have to go to the opposite side of the main entrance to Machu Picchu there are plenty of signs and you can also ask the guards. It is not hard to find it because you will see the mountain itself unless it is very foggy.
While hiking up you need to watch where you walk because the steps suddenly change from small to big. It is not like you will fall over the edge. You can hit your head or bum if you slip, but not if you have the proper shoes and look where you walk. You should hike with good sneakers with a good grip, forget the flip-flop or heels for Huayna Picchu it will not be easy and the guards will probably laugh at you.
For more Machu Picchu tips: Everything you need to know about visiting Machu Picchu
Stones Huayna Picchu
I saw many pictures of this kind of steps before my hike. I got quite worried. This just a wall that you don't get near. The steps don't look like that at all.
Walking up Huayna Picchu
The steps are more like this, quite steep but you will not fall over a cliff or anything like that. There are ropes you can hold on to as well.
How long does it take?
The hike up took me 40 minutes where I was already acclimatised. Depending on speed walking up takes around 35 minutes to 90 minutes. Walking down 30-60 minutes.
How many can hike Huayna Picchu a day?
There are only 400 people allowed to hike Huayna Picchu a day. 200 people to start from 07:00 am to 08:00 am and 200 people 10:00am to 11:00am. You must register and start the hike within that timeframe you bought the tickets.
Inca Ruins Huayna Picchu
Important info about the tickets!
If You want to hike Huayna Picchu you have to buy the tickets beforehand together with your Machu Picchu tickets. You need to book tickets for this at least 4 months before to get the date you want. I bought my ticket from this website.
Viewing Machu Picchu from above
Related: What to pack for a trip to Peru
was a life-saver on my trip to Peru. I am so happy I had this book already some months before travelling to Peru. It gives you ideas on where to eat, stay, travel and of course what to do and see. It contains professional tips about safety and general everything you need to know before and during your trip to Peru. It also got a 3D map of Machu Picchu and tips on what to see within the citadel and the best photo spots etc. It is kind of old-school to still walk around with a guidebook, but you can also get the kindle version.
Would you hike Huayna Picchu?
