Montaña Huayna Picchu sobre la ciudadela de Machu Picchu

Huayna Picchu

The mountain in the classic Machu Picchu photo

Huayna Picchu is the pointed mountain rising behind the citadel in the classic photo of Machu Picchu. Its summit holds Inca terraces and buildings, and from the top you can take in the entire sanctuary.

What the climb is like

The trail is short but steep, with narrow stone steps and sections fitted with support cables. The climb usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour. It’s not recommended if you suffer from vertigo.

Huayna Picchu tickets

You buy it together with your Machu Picchu entry, as a specific ticket with a set climbing time. Daily spots are few and sell out before regular tickets do, so it’s best to book several weeks in advance.

Huayna Picchu travel guides

Updated Oct 2026 · 7 min read

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Tickets, routes, weather, altitude and budget: all checked against official sources and updated every season.