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What Do You Need To Know Before Climbing Huayna Picchu?

What if you get a chance to see amazing Inca Constructions built on death-defying locations? Huayna Picchu Mountain holds an amazing experience of these Inca Staircases.

Huayna Picchu signifies ‘Young Peak’ in Quechua. It is the huge mountain that stands just behind Machu Picchu. For maximum trekkers, climbing Huayna Picchu is amongst the best tours to Machu Picchu.

The ruins of the Citadel and surrounding terrain look extraordinary from the height. It is nicely worth the climbing effort. Huayna Picchu is partly swathed in haze and cloud in the background.

Huayna Picchu Hike, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Difficulty

Important Points to Remember While Trekking Huayna Picchu Mountain

Some important points to know before climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain are:

  • The most crucial factor is your physical wellness. The path can be challenging.
  • The Huayna Picchu is somewhat steep. This hike is a short one but the altitude makes it difficult.
  • Only 400 visitors can hike Huayna Picchu a day. The 400 visitors enter in different batches. 200 tourists leave at 7 AM. The rest leave at 200 at 10 AM. These batches are required to return by 10 AM and 1 PM respectively.
  • The altitude will be an issue if you are unfit. Do some physical exercises to keep up with your health. The mountain is at a height of 8,920 feet above sea level. It is 1,180 feet above Machu Picchu. 
Huayna Picchu Hike,  Huayna Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Difficulty

The Narrow Tunnel 

You will find a narrow tunnel when coming to the summit of climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain. This was possibly constructed by the Incas. The idea behind it is that it will function as Choke Point for invading forces. There are also spots where you need to crawl through. 

In Huayna Picchu Mountain, the real issue is during the rainy day or rainy season. The cave portion will be very slippery at that particular time.

Huayna Picchu Hike,  Huayna Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Difficulty

The Death Stairs

The death stairs can be found near the summit of Huayna Picchu Mountain. Do not worry, this is not as scary as it sounds. However, you can neither expect a cakewalk over here. 

The set of stairs is extreme at the top. It takes an angle of 60 degrees at certain points. You need to be cautious while trekking this part.

Adding to that, there is no railing for you to hold on to or get support from. Thus, tourists are expected to be as careful as they could be and walk gradually.

Huayna Picchu Hike

Difficulty Level

Huayna Picchu difficulty is created by the absence of a railing in the death stairs region which can be troublesome for some. You will encounter a free fall if you slip down. Hold on! Do not panic. Many visitors trek this area daily and they have done it successfully. Keep faith in yourself and conquer the world. 

This hike is considered moderately difficult. Huayna Picchu difficulty is all about your psychological confusion and solely depends on how you regulate it. If you have the fear of height, this trek is not for you. If you have vertigo, loss of balance, you better drop the plan of climbing Huayna Picchu.

Huayna Picchu Hike, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Difficulty

How Long Does It Take To Trek The Huayna Picchu?

It generally takes around 3 hours to enjoy the scenic beauty of Huayna Picchu Mountain. This time includes the timed ascent, time at the top of the mountain, visit the temple of the moon and the descent. It will take around an hour to reach the top of the mountain. 

Is It Dangerous To Climb The Huayna Picchu Mountain?

It isn’t dangerous but the tour is difficult. It can be dizzying for many. The most complicated sections have safety ropes. Huayna Picchu difficulty is somewhat compensated by these ropes. 

Should You Hike Huayna Picchu?

Huayna Picchu is a mountain in Peru with a height of 2720 m. When you reach the top of the mountain, it will provide a bird-eye view of the ruins of Machu Picchu, Urubamba river valley and surrounding peaks. It is apt for people of all ages with a good level of fitness. 

If you are concerned with weight issues, do not worry. There have been several trekkers who have completed the trek successfully. You just need to keep your pace slow so that you do not go breathless. 

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Machu Picchu Tours is a unique local Tour Operator that runs small groups ideal for the young and young at heart!
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