It rises over Machu Picchu, the so-called Lost City of the Incas. The Incas built a trail up the side of the Huayna Picchu and constructed temples and terraces at its top. The peak of Huayna Picchu is 2,693 metres (8,835 ft) above sea level, or about 260 metres (850 ft) higher than Machu Picchu. The top of the mountain was the residence for the high priest and the local virgins.
A steep and, at times, exposed pathway leads to the summit. Some portions are slippery and steel cables (a via ferrata) provide some support during the one-hour climb. The ascent is more challenging between November and April because the path up the mountain becomes slippery in the rainy season. Better climbing conditions can be expected during the dry season, which runs from May to September. There are two trails of varying lengths that visitors can take to hike to the summit. The shorter trail takes approximately 45–60 minutes to reach the top, while the longer trail takes approximately 3 hours to reach the summit. From the summit, a second trail, leads down to the Gran Caverna and what is known as the Temple of the Moon. These natural caves, on the northern face of the mountain, are lower than the starting point of the trail. The return path from the caves completes a loop around the mountain where it rejoins the main trail.
The footpath leading up Huayna Picchu, the dome-shaped peak rising behind the Inca citadel, is the most popular hike at Machu Picchu. It takes about one hour to reach the summit of Huayna Picchu, and stunning views over the ruins are your reward. Higher sections of the trail are narrow with steep drop-offs, so you shouldn’t do this hike if you are afraid of heights. Entry for this trail is limited to 400 hikers per day and you must reserve your spot (if space is still available) when you purchase an entry + hike ticket in advance.
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Machu Picchu: Facts, travel information and highlights
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